Sandy Crest Medical Centre - Health Tips

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Fever in children

Fever is a response produced by the brain and in children it is quite often a reaction to either viral or bacterial illness. The increased body temperature aids the immune system to fight infection. Therefore it is the body’s natural defense mechanism in the effort to eradicate infection. Fever is defined as an oral temperature greater than 37.7°C. After your child is found to have a fever he or she may become irritable or uncomfortable and medication can be given to reduce the fever. The most common and readily available medications are Paracetamol (Aramol, Calpol) and Ibuprofen (Advil). Remember to check medication labels for dosing instructions. The child’s appetite is usually decreased, so do not force solid food but ensure that he or she is adequately hydrated, by giving extra oral fluids.

Seek medical attention is any of the following is observed:

a) The fever is constant for more that 2 days
b) The child appears very sleepy or floppy
c) Has neck stiffness
d) Is not tolerating oral fluids
e) Has a seizure (fit)