Fever is a sign that the body is responding to something — usually a common infection. How the child looks and behaves matters more than the number on the thermometer.
At home
- Offer fluids often — breast milk, water or ORS.
- Dress the child lightly, keep the room airy, and do not sponge with cold water.
- If you use paracetamol or ibuprofen, follow the dose for the child's weight and age on the pack, and never give more than one product containing the same medicine.
Get medical help the same day if the child
Is under three months old with any fever; is very drowsy, floppy or difficult to wake; is breathing fast or struggling to breathe; has a rash that does not fade when pressed; has a stiff neck, a fit, repeated vomiting, or has not passed urine for many hours.
Malaria
In malaria-endemic areas, a fever should be tested rather than assumed. A rapid test is quick and it changes what treatment is needed.
This article is general information and does not replace an assessment by a clinician who can examine your child.