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Fever

What is fever?

Fever is present when the temperature of the body (measured inside the mouth) rises above 37.2°C. The normal body temperature is up to 37°C. Most fevers are due to an infection in the body and are an important part of the body's defence against infection. Fever is usually caused by a virus but sometimes by bacteria. The temperature returns to normal when the infection settles.

Fever in children

Fever is common in children, in whom the temperature may rise quickly to 38.5°C or higher. It does not mean the child has a serious illness. It is normal for children, especially infants and toddlers, to have at least 5 or 6 episodes of fever a year.

Management of fever

Adults

• Do not overheat with too many clothes or blankets.
• Drink a lot of light fluids, especially water.
• Take aspirin or paracetamol tablets for relief.
• Fan or sponge the patient if the fever is severe.

Seek medical attention for the following:

• severe headache or neck stiffness
• twitching, shaking or convulsions
• excessive drowsiness
• signs or symptoms that worry you

Children

• Dress the child in light clothing.
• Do not overheat with too many clothes, rugs or blankets.
• Keep the child cool, but avoid draughts.
• Give the child small drinks of light fluids, especially water, often. Do not worry if the child will not eat.
• Give paracetamol syrup every 4 hours until the temperature settles.
• Give the child plenty of tender loving care, with reassurance that they will soon feel well.

Note: Cooling measures such as completely undressing the child, sponging with lukewarm water and using fans are not necessary.

Seek immediate medical help for the following:

• severe headache or neck pain (with stiffness)
• light hurting the eyes
• repeated vomiting
• a convulsion or the child acting 'odd'
• undue drowsiness or difficulty waking up
• refusal to drink
• the child looking sick
• no improvement in 48 hours
• earache or other pain

Key points

1. Fevers fight infection.
2. Fevers are common in children.
3. Give them paracetamol mixture every 4 hours.
4. Keep them cool.

   Copyright 1995: John Murtagh, Professor of General Practice
   Monash University, Melbourne, Australia