Fever in children

Temperature control in the body
The ‘core temperature’ means the temperature of the deep tissues of the body and in normal circumstances this is kept at a very even level by a range of automatic adjustments.
When we are too hot, we increase the amount of blood flowing through the skin by opening up the tiny capillary blood vessels. This radiates away excess heat and sweating can further enhance this.
When we are too cold, we shut down skin blood vessels and conserve heat within the internal organs. If necessary we can generate more heat by shivering.
Fever is part of the body’s defence mechanism against viruses or bacteria. The body creates extra heat, so that the foreign organism cannot survive. Having a temperature helps you fight illness. Fever is a good thing, most of the time.
Actions to reduce a fever can help make someone feel more comfortable. But it’s not possible, or desirable, to aim to normalise the temperature – while someone is fighting off an infection.
What is the normal temperature for a child?
If you take the temperature in your child’s mouth or from the ear, the normal temperature is 36 to 36.8ºC (97.7 to 99.1ºF).
Thermometers
Traditional mercury thermometers are being phased out, although many are still around.
Mercury is a highly toxic substance if taken into the body – which can be done through skin contact, breathing in the vapour or swallowing it.
All these risks can apply to the fragile glass thermometer if it’s broken, for example by a child biting it.
If you have a mercury thermometer, check with your local council how to dispose of it safely.
Modern probe-type digital thermometers are quicker to use, more reliable and are much safer if bitten.
When is a fever critical?
Look at your child and use common sense. Do they look exhausted or ill? Are they behaving differently? If the answer is yes, call the doctor.
You should also call your doctor if:
you have a young child, less than three months old, who runs any fever
your child cries and cries, without you being able to comfort them, and doesn’t wake up easily
your child has a temperature over 38ºC (101.3ºF) for more than three days
your child has just had an operation
your child doesn’t seem to be getting better.
If your child experiences any of the following symptoms with a fever, call your doctor.
Stiff neck.
Affected by bright light.
Hallucinations.
Red rash or blue or purple dots or patches.
Trouble breathing.
Cramps or leg pains.
Continued vomiting or diarrhoea.
Continued tonsillitis.
Pain when urinating, or urinating more than usual.
Other illnesses.

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