It is a natural response of the body against viral or bacterial infections; usually it is not dangerous and helps in keeping the body fit.

BODY TEMPERATURES:

AXILLARY TEMPERATURES:

Normal – 98.0 degree F

Fever – 99.4 degree F

High fever – 104.4 degree F

Thermometer to measure body temperature

ORAL TEMPERATURES:

Normal – 98.6 degree F

Fever – 100.0 degree F

High fever – 105.0 degree F

CURING WITHOUT MEDICINES:

• If the child is having fever but he is playful, eating and drinking then he may not need any medicine.
• Dress up the child with lightweight clothes or even remove the dresses so as to allow loss of heat through the skin.
• If the child is shivering or feeling cold, a lightweight blanket can be used.
• Try to keep your child quiet as increase in activity may cause temperature rise.
• Child must be made to drink lots of water, juices or whatever he/she likes.

CURING WITH MEDICINES:

• Medicines are required only to reduce fever so as to make the child feel comfortable.
• Paracetamol i.e., acetaminophen can be given every 4 hours. For dosage check the bottle.
• Doctor may advise to give nimesulide or ibuprofen. The dosage differs from different doctors.
• Aspirin should not be used strictly for fever. It can only be used for a serious disorder known as Reye’s syndrome.
• It is advisable to give medication to your child for fever only if he/she shows the symptoms of fever.
• Child may be given a sponge bath with lukewarm water and not cold water, only if fever is higher than 104 degree F or when fever doesn’t decrease even 30-60 minutes after medication.
• Do not use rubbing alcohol for baths or sponging.
• Alcohol causes alcohol poisoning, as it can cool the body too quickly and can get absorbed through the skin.

Paracetamol tablets

WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR?

• If baby is less than 6 months of age and has a temperature of 101 degree F or high.
• If child’s fever is 104 degree F or higher.
• If child has other signs of illness like vomiting, loss of appetite or playfulness.