Understanding Fevers

Fevers can cause anxiety and worry. What we need to remember is that a fever is completely normal. It simply means your child is sick, and what we know is that your child will get sick quite often as their immune system matures.

A fever is a rise in body temperature. It is the body’s way of stimulating your child’s immune system which in turn will fight the infection. A fever is classified when your child’s temperature is over 38 degrees Celsius. A fever can be uncomfortable.

How to check a temperature?

The best way to take your child's temperature is by using a digital thermometer. They are easy to use, affordable and have less chance of being inaccurate.

A digital thermometer can be used in two ways. Axillary under the child’s armpit and orally in your child's mouth. Oral thermometers should be used only in children over 4 years of age.

Tympanic thermometers can be used in children over 6 months of age. However, they can be difficult to use.

As per the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne infrared thermometers are inaccurate and should be avoided.

What you might notice:

-       Chills

-       Shivering

-       Headache

-       Muscle aches and pain

-       Lethargy (tiredness)

-       Dehydration

-       Loss of appetite

-       Sweating

Fever management at home:

• Let your child rest

• Encourage frequent hydration. This can include water (children over 6months), more frequent breast feeds, increase in formula feeds.

• Ensure your child has one less layer of clothing to ensure they are comfortable.

• Give paracetamol and/or ibuprofen for comfort and to relieve unwanted symptoms (this won’t make them get better quicker, but they will be more comfortable)

When to worry?

• If your child under 3 months of age and has a fever. You should see your GP for further investigation.

• If your child has had a fever for longer than 48 hours. If your child has a fever for longer than 48 hours and is not improving, see your local GP for medical review.

• If your child has had a febrile convulsion. Call 000 for an ambulance if this is the first time your child has had a febrile convulsion, or the febrile convulsion lasted 5 mins or longer.

REMEMBER: You know your child better than anyone. If you are concerned for any reason, seek medical review.

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