Sterilization and Disinfection
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Fever in Children: When Should Parents Worry?
Learn causes, danger signs, and treatment. Explained by Dr. Lalit Kumar Dhoka.
📋 Key Points at a Glance
- Viral infections are the #1 cause.
- Immediate care for infants < 3 months.
- Home care (Paracetamol) is often enough.
- Watch for seizures or breathing issues.
Fever is one of the most common reasons parents rush to a pediatrician. It causes understandable worry — koi bhi mata-pita apne bachche ko takleef mein nahin dekhna chahta. But here is an important truth: fever itself is not a disease. It is the body's natural response to infection, telling you that the immune system is fighting back.
Fever is defined as a body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F). A temperature between 37.5°C–38°C is considered a low-grade fever. Above 40°C is a high fever and requires medical evaluation promptly.
- Viral infections — Includes common cold, flu, and viral diarrhea. Usually resolve in 3–5 days.
- Bacterial infections — Ear infections or pneumonia. Often require antibiotics.
- Post-vaccination fever — Expected after vaccines like DPT or MMR. Lasts 1–2 days.
- Teething — Only cause very mild temperature (up to 37.5°C).
- Baby under 3 months with fever > 38°C.
- Fever lasting more than 3 days.
- Febrile seizures (fits).
- Severe difficulty breathing or fast breathing.
- Purple or red spots on skin.
- Give paracetamol (Crocin/Calpol) based on weight.
- Keep hydrated with water, coconut water, or ORS.
- Use light clothing and lukewarm sponging for comfort.
Dr. Lalit Kumar Dhoka
Pediatrician & Neonatologist
Pritam Children's Hospital
Bhosari, Pune