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Fever Management in Children

Fever is an important part of the immune response against infection; it requires correct assessment rather than panic.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Fever Management in Children?

Fever is a body temperature of 38°C or higher. Rectal measurement is the gold standard; 0.5°C is added to axillary measurement. In infants younger than 3 months, every fever of 38°C or higher, and in older children, a fever above 39°C or lasting more than 5 days, requires careful evaluation.

The most common cause of fever in children is viral respiratory tract infections. Otitis, urinary tract infection, tonsillitis, and more rarely meningitis, pneumonia and bacteremia also cause fever.

The aim of antipyretics is to make the child comfortable; they do not shorten the duration of illness. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the most commonly used drugs; aspirin is contraindicated in children due to the risk of Reye syndrome.

Symptoms

Body temperature 38°C and above
Irritability, crying or excessive lethargy
Loss of appetite and refusal to take fluids
Muscle pain and shivering
Facial flushing and sweating
Febrile seizure (fever-related convulsion): seen in 2-5% of children aged 6 months-5 years

Risk Factors

Age younger than 3 months (high bacteremia risk)
Immunocompromised children
Being unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated
Communal care settings
Chronic illness
Family history of febrile seizure

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Fever 38°C or above in an infant younger than 3 months (EMERGENCY)
  • Fever of 40°C or above at any age
  • If fever is accompanied by neck stiffness, rash or light sensitivity
  • Fever lasting more than 5 days
  • When the first febrile seizure occurs

Treatment Methods

01
Paracetamol: 10-15 mg/kg/dose, every 4-6 hours (older than 2 months)
02
Ibuprofen: 5-10 mg/kg/dose, every 6-8 hours (older than 6 months)
03
Plenty of fluids: preventing dehydration with water, soup, fruit juice
04
Light clothing and cool environment; cool wet cloth application
05
Antibiotics for bacterial cause (according to culture and sensitivity test)
06
Rectal diazepam or nasal midazolam in febrile seizure

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.