A high fever is one of the body's mechanisms to fight infection. By raising body temperature, our body activates its defense system to kill pathogens. Generally, bacteria die at temperatures above 39°C (102.2°F). This shortens the duration of illness and enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics. If you use medication to reduce a fever between 37°C (98.6°F) and 38.5°C (101.3°F) at the onset of a cold, it can temporarily put bacteria into a dormant state and cause them to develop resistance. Once the fever returns, they often become harder to treat. So how should you reduce a child's fever?38.5°C, medication to reduce the fever may cause bacteria to enter a temporary state of dormancy and develop drug resistance. Once reactivated, they often become harder to treat. So how can we reduce a child's fever?
1. Cold compresses: If the high fever is unbearable, cold compresses can help lower body temperature. Place a damp, cold towel on the forehead, wrists, and calves, while covering other areas with clothing.Replace the compresses when they reach body temperature, repeating until the fever subsides. Alternatively, place ice packs wrapped in cloth on the forehead.However, if the temperature rises above 39°C (102.2°F), discontinue hot compresses and switch to cold compresses to prevent further elevation.
A high fever is one of the body's mechanisms to fight infection. By raising the body temperature, our body activates its defense system to kill pathogens. Generally, bacteria die at temperatures above 39°C (102.2°F). So how do you reduce a child's fever?
3. Wiping the Body
Evaporation also helps lower temperature. Experts recommend using cold tap water to help the skin dissipate excess heat. While you can wipe the entire body (using a sponge), focus particularly on areas with higher temperatures, such as the armpits and groin. Squeeze excess water from the sponge and wipe one area at a time, keeping other areas covered with clothing.The body's heat will evaporate this moisture, aiding in heat dissipation.
4. Bathing Sometimes, a warm bath is the most soothing option. It can also help alleviate fever symptoms. For infants, use lukewarm water for bathing or wrap them in a damp towel, changing it every 15 minutes. Ensure clothing is appropriately light.
5. Foot Soaking Soaking feet promotes blood circulation and eases discomfort.Another benefit of foot soaks for babies with fever is their cooling effect. Use a foot basin or small bucket filled with 2/3 water, slightly warmer than usual—around 40°C (104°F), adjusted to the baby's comfort level. While soaking, gently massage the baby's feet to dilate blood vessels and ease fever-related discomfort.6. Medication for Fever Reduction
Common fever-reducing medications include cooling patches and suppositories. Oral solutions or granules may also be used. For infants under one year old, drops are preferable due to their lower concentration and reduced irritation.
Finally, it is advisable to seek medical attention when a baby has a fever.