A temperature above 38°C is a fever. In an otherwise well child it usually reflects a viral infection that resolves within three days.
Safe care at home
- Offer fluids frequently in small amounts
- Dress the child lightly; avoid cold baths
- Use weight-appropriate paracetamol as directed
- Recheck the temperature every four hours
Come in the same day if
- The child is under three months old
- There is a stiff neck, rash that does not blanch, or a seizure
- The child is drowsy, refusing feeds, or passing little urine
- Fever persists beyond 72 hours
Our paediatric room runs 24 hours. A rapid malaria test and full blood count take under an hour.
