My child has a fever booklet
The booklet “My child has a fever” contains information and tips on what parents can do when their child has a fever. We hope this will help alleviate some of the concerns parents may have.
Fever is common in children, especially those under the age of 5. Your child has a fever if their body temperature is 38 degrees or higher. This is often accompanied by other, sometimes unpleasant symptoms. The fever usually goes away on its own, but it can cause concern for you as a parent.
A fever is a body temperature of 38 degrees or higher and is often a normal response by the body to a bacterium or virus. If your child has a fever, you usually do not need to see a doctor. However, in certain situations it is important to call your GP immediately.
Measure the temperature with a thermometer in the anus; this is the most reliable method. An ear thermometer is easy to use, but less accurate. An ear thermometer is not suitable for babies younger than 3 months, because the entrance to the ear is still too small.
Measuring the temperature once a day is sufficient. Do you feel that your child is becoming increasingly ill? And do you think that the fever has risen? Then you can always take another measurement. If your child does not feel ill, there is no need to take their temperature.
A fever can last a few days. How long the fever lasts does not say much about how serious the illness is. Once the body has cleared the infection, the temperature will drop again. Does your child have a fever that lasts 5 days or longer? Then call your GP's assistant for advice.
The booklet “My child has a fever” contains information and tips on what parents can do when their child has a fever. We hope this will help alleviate some of the concerns parents may have.
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