Childhood fevers are a common concern for parents, often causing worry and anxiety. However, in most cases, fever is a natural immune response to infection and is generally not difficult to manage. Understanding how to effectively manage fever at home can help ease concerns and ensure the comfort and well-being of your child.

1. Monitor Temperature:

• Always have a thermometer at home. Use a reliable digital thermometer to measure your child's temperature accurately.
• Record temperature readings along with the time and date to track the fever's progression.
• Remember that fever is defined as a axillary temperature of 37.5°C or higher.

2. Keep Your Child Comfortable:

• Expose your child in by removing the clothings to help regulate body temperature.
• Ensure the room is comfortably cool, but not too cold or too warm.
• Mop the child's body with tepid water.
• Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, including water and liquid cereal.

3. Use Fever-Reducing Medications Sparingly:

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin) can help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort.
• Follow dosing instructions carefully based on your child's age and weight.
• Avoid giving aspirin to children and teenagers, as it may increase the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.

4. Monitor Symptoms:

• Pay attention to other symptoms your child may be experiencing, such as cough, runny nose, or ear pain.
• Seek further medical attention for assessment and treatment of the child.

5. Provide Comfort and Support:

• Offer plenty of rest and comfort to help your child recover.
• Use cool compresses or lukewarm baths to help reduce fever and soothe discomfort.
• Offer age-appropriate distractions, such as books, games, or quiet activities, to keep your child occupied.

6. Practice Good Hygiene:

• Encourage frequent handwashing to prevent the spread of infection.
• Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces and objects to reduce the risk of spreading illness within the household.

7. Know When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention:

• Consult your child's healthcare provider if:
  • Your child is under three months old and has a fever of 38°C or higher.
  • Your child has a fever accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as cough, irritability, convulsion or poor feeding.
  • Fever persists for more than three days despite home management.