27/01/2026
🌡️ Fever in children: let’s talk about it (without the panic)
Fever is one of the most common reasons parents worry — but here’s the good news:
👉 Fever is not the enemy.
It’s your child’s body doing its job in fighting an infection which could be viral or bacterial.
📌 What is a fever?
A temperature of 38°C or higher.
🧠 Here’s what really matters (hint: not just the number):
Instead of focusing only on the thermometer, look at your child:
* Are they drinking fluids?
* Are they responsive and making eye contact?
* Are they breathing comfortably?
* Do they perk up after fever medicine?
A child with a high fever who still plays, drinks and smiles is often less concerning than a child with a lower temperature who looks very unwell.
💊 Fever medicine 101
* Paracetamol and or Ibuprofen can be given every 4–6 hours
* Maximum 4 doses of each in 24 hours
* Dose according to weight, not age
* Fever medicine is for comfort, not to “chase” the temperature
🤝 What can paracetamol be given with?
✔️ Ibuprofen (they work differently)
✔️ Antibiotics (if prescribed)
❌ Avoid double-dosing with cold/flu syrups that already contain paracetamol
❌Do not give a cold bath. If they shiver cover them and if they sweat uncover them.
🚩 Seek medical advice urgently if your child:
* Is under 3 months with fever
* Is difficult to wake or unusually sleepy
* Has trouble breathing
* Has a seizure
* Has a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed
* Is not drinking or passing urine
* Is vomiting repeatedly
* Or if you’re worried, parental instinct matters
🤍
You don’t need to be brave at home.
If something feels off, it’s always okay to have your child checked.
Dr Willem Smit
Paediatrician
For more information read my previous post on fever as well.
https://www.facebook.com/share/1F1Y1y3vwp/?mibextid=wwXIfr
