Understanding Fever in Children
Fever (temperature ≥38°C / 100.4°F) is the body's natural immune response to infection. It is not an illness itself — it is a sign that the immune system is working. Most fevers in children are caused by viral infections and resolve in 2–5 days without specific treatment.
Temperature Measurement Guide
- Rectal (most accurate for infants): ≥38°C = fever
- Axillary (underarm): ≥37.5°C = fever (0.5°C less than rectal)
- Oral: ≥37.8°C = fever
- Forehead / ear strips: Less accurate — use for screening only
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
- Any fever in a baby <3 months (even low-grade) — emergency
- Fever >39.4°C in children under 2 years
- Fever lasting >5 days at any age
- Fever with rash, stiff neck, severe headache, light sensitivity (possible meningitis)
- Fever with difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or dehydration
- Child very difficult to wake, unusually confused or limp
- Fever with a febrile seizure
Home Management
- Paracetamol: 15 mg/kg every 4–6 hours
- Ibuprofen (>6 months): 10 mg/kg every 6–8 hours
- Encourage fluids — fever causes fluid loss
- Light clothing — do not bundle up
- Tepid sponging: lukewarm water (not cold/ice)
FAQ
Do I need to reduce every fever? Not necessarily. Fever serves an immune function. Treat fever if child is uncomfortable, not just because the thermometer reads high. The number alone does not determine treatment — the child's overall appearance does.