Fevers in children are a common concern that often sends parents to the doctor. While a high temperature can be alarming, in most cases, it’s simply the body’s way of fighting off a harmless virus. With proper care, many fever symptoms can be managed at home, often with the help of reliable medications like Panado®. However, there are times when a fever calls for medical attention.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Babies Under 3 Months
For babies younger than three months, any fever of 38°C or higher requires immediate medical attention. At this age, even a mild fever can be a sign of a serious health issue. If you cannot reach your doctor, don’t hesitate to go to the hospital for prompt care.
Fever Guidelines for Babies Over 3 Months, Toddlers, and Older Children
For babies older than three months, toddlers, and children, it’s important to observe their overall behaviour and appearance. If your child seems well, is staying hydrated, and is not showing other worrying symptoms, it’s generally safe to monitor the fever at home. However, consider contacting your doctor if:
- The fever reaches 40°C or higher.
- The fever persists for more than 24-48 hours in children two years and younger, or 48-72 hours in children aged three years and older.
- The fever keeps returning for more than a week.
- Your child is vomiting, has diarrhoea, or shows signs of mild to moderate dehydration.
Trust Your Parental Instincts
As a parent, you know your child best. If you feel uneasy or have concerns about their symptoms, always follow your instincts and contact your doctor. It’s better to be cautious and ensure that your child receives the care they need.
Red Flag Symptoms to Watch For
Regardless of age, certain symptoms combined with a fever may indicate a more serious issue. If your child displays any of the following, seek immediate medical help:
- Persistent, uncontrollable crying
- Limpness or lack of movement
- A rash or purple spots that resemble bruises and weren’t present before
- Stiff neck
- Severe headache
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Intense stomach pain
Managing Fevers at Home
While a fever can make your child feel uncomfortable, there are safe ways to ease their symptoms at home. Panado® offers a paediatric range specifically designed to provide relief for children. Options include:
- Strawberry-flavoured syrup for children
- Peppermint-flavoured, alcohol-free, and sugar-free syrup
- Peppermint-flavoured infant drops with a convenient dosage dropper
When administering medication, always use a medicine measure or syringe, and never exceed the recommended dosage. For detailed dosage guidelines based on your child’s age and weight, visit the Panado® Dosage Calculator.
Parents trust7 Panado® to fight their little one’s pain and provide fast8 relief when needed most. Panado® products are available at Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers, including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem, and Independent Pharmacies. For more information, visit https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook.
Stay Informed and Be Prepared
By understanding when to seek help and how to manage fever symptoms at home, you can help your child recover comfortably and safely. Always trust your instincts, and remember that if you’re ever unsure, your healthcare provider is just a call away.
