Fever in childhood

The most common causes of fever in children are infections caused by viruses (e.g. upper respiratory tract infections, coughs, stomach flu). Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics because they are not effective against viruses. However, if the fever is caused by a bacterial infection (e.g. urinary tract infection, bacterial angina), the child will be given antibiotics if necessary. Fever does not necessarily have to be caused by an infection, but can also be caused by an inflammatory reaction or as a result of a vaccination, for example. Serious illnesses can also trigger a fever.

• We recommend taking the temperature of infants up to 6 months with a digital thermometer in the bum. The temperature measured in the bum comes closest to the body's core temperature and is therefore very accurate.
• For babies aged 6 months and over, the temperature can be taken with an ear thermometer in the ear. If you are unsure, we recommend checking the temperature measured in the bum.
• From the age of 5, the temperature can be taken in the ear or with a digital thermometer both under the tongue and under the armpit.

• Children are usually tired and exhausted when they have a fever. If your child still feels well, it is not absolutely necessary to give him or her a fever-reducing medicine.
• Only dress your child lightly.
• Children need more fluids due to fever. Make sure they drink enough (e.g. water or tea). Your child may have a poor appetite.
• For children aged 6 months and over, you can apply compresses to the calves with lukewarm water (instructions on the back). However, this method should only be used when both the feet and legs are warm. The child must also feel comfortable with it.
• Do not give any medication to children under 3 months of age without consulting your paediatrician.
• Children aged 3 months and over can be given paracetamol in the form of suppositories, syrup or tablets every 6 hours at most or as prescribed by a doctor, according to the package leaflet.
• Ibuprofen can be administered from 6 months of age (in consultation with the paediatrician from 3 months if necessary). Ibuprofen can also be given in the form of suppositories, syrup or tablets according to the package leaflet every 8 hours maximum or as prescribed by a doctor.
• Before giving alternative medication, consult your paediatrician.
• Antipyretic medication only reaches its maximum effect after 60 to 90 minutes. Therefore, only check the temperature again after this time has elapsed. The temperature should have dropped by 0.5 °C - 1.0 °C during this time.

• In infants under 3 months of age whose body temperature rises above 38.0 °C.
• For drowsiness, poor appearance, irritability, sensitivity to touch.
• For headaches, stiff neck, sensitivity to light.
• In case of persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, refusal to drink fluids.
• For shortness of breath.
• If the fever persists and there is no improvement despite regular medication for 2 to 3 days.
• For febrile seizures.
• In the case of an existing underlying disease (e.g. heart, kidney or metabolic disease).
• In the case of a rash on the body with red or blue dots or spots (petechiae) that cannot be pushed away and are usually the size of a pinhead.