Fever

When do we speak of fever?

From a temperature of about 38 degrees Celsius we speak of fever, from 39 degrees Celsius of high fever and from 40 degrees Celsius of very high fever.

 

How do I measure fever?

In infancy, it is best to measure the temperature with a digital thermometer rectally, meaning in the bottom. Later you can also measure the temperature in the ear, under the armpit or in the mouth.
The temperature that is measured rectally matches the actual body core temperature, with all the other measure methods you can add about 0.5 degrees Celsius.

 

 What should I do?

Infants who have a temperature should be examined by the paediatrician to clarify the cause of the fever.
For older children that are generally in good condition– meaning that your child still wants to play, is active and does not seem very ill – you can wait and see. Make sure that your child limits its physical activities and that it drinks enough. Here it is advisable to offer sips of cool drinks. If the feet or lower legs are hot, you can make calf wraps. From about 40 degrees Celsius body temperature you should definitely give fever-lowering medicine. Up to about 40 degrees Celsius it is up to you whether you give fever-lowering medication to increase your child’s well-being. In poor general condition, shivering fits or long-lasting fever it is necessary to clarify the fever.

 

What is dangerous?

For the following symptoms it is important to call the Ambulance (144):
Change in consciousness, spasms, neck stiffness, bleeding into the skin, pale or blue complexion, shortness of breath, blood vomiting, massive bloody stools, blood in the urine, no urine, bilious vomiting, rigid belly.