Fever occurs when a child's body temperature is higher than normal. A high temperature is very common in young children. The temperature usually returns to normal within 3 or 4 days.
Diagnosis
Healthy children have a body temperature between 36.5°C (97.7°F) and 37.5°C (99.5°F).
Temperature between 37.5 (99.5°F) and 38.5°C (101.3°F is referred to as an elevated body temperature.
A thermometer is used to measure the body's temperature.
Causes of Fever
• Viral infections causing common illnesses such as cold, flu, diarrhoea, etc.
• Bacterial infections causing pneumonia, joint infections, urine infections, kidney infections, etc.
• Inflammatory conditions
• Immunisations.
• Dehydration
Signs and Symptoms
The child:
• Feels hotter than usual when the chest or back is touched
• Feels sweaty
• Looks or feels unwell
• Has the irritable feeling
• In pain and shivering
• Febrile seizures
• Stiff neck, in responsiveness, restlessness or confusion
• Skin rash
Home Remedies
• Dress the child in light clothing. Overdressing can trap the body’s heat and make the temperature go higher.
• Give extra fluids
• Child may not want to eat much. Offer soft foods often and in small amounts but do not force feed.
•Give sponge baths or let your child soak in a tub. Water should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold. Use a washcloth to sponge the water over the child’s body.
• Over-the-counter medicines can help lower a fever. Read the label on the bottle to know the right dose for your child.
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