Why Do Children Often Have Fevers?

Fever is one of the most common symptoms in young children, causing concern for many parents. However, fever is not always dangerous; in fact, it is a natural response of the body to disease-causing agents. In this article, we will explore the causes of fever in children, the proper ways to manage it, and effective prevention methods.

1. What Is Fever in Children?

Fever occurs when a child's body temperature rises above normal levels, typically from 37.5°C (99.5°F) or higher when measured under the armpit or 38°C (100.4°F) or higher when measured rectally. It is a natural immune response to fight off infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or environmental factors.

2. Causes of Fever in Children

There are many reasons why children develop fevers, including:

2.1. Viral Infections

This is the most common cause of fever in children.
Illnesses caused by viruses such as the flu, dengue fever, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, measles, and chickenpox can all lead to fever.
Children often experience high fever along with symptoms such as cough, runny nose, rash, or diarrhea.

2.2. Bacterial Infections

Some bacterial infections, such as strep throat, pneumonia, meningitis, and ear infections, can cause high fever.
Fever due to bacteria is often accompanied by sore throat, productive cough, difficulty breathing, or diarrhea.

2.3. Teething

Children aged 6 months to 3 years may experience mild fever when teething.
Symptoms include excessive drooling, irritability, and a tendency to chew on objects.

2.4. Vaccination

After receiving vaccines, children may develop mild to high fever within 24-48 hours.
This is a normal immune response to the vaccine.

2.5. Weather Changes

Sudden temperature changes can cause fever, especially during seasonal transitions.
Young children have an immature immune system, making them more sensitive to extreme cold or heat.

2.6. Dehydration Fever

Fever can occur when a child becomes dehydrated due to diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating.
Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial to prevent the fever from worsening.

2.7. Serious Medical Conditions

Some severe illnesses, such as malaria, encephalitis, and sepsis, can cause persistent high fever.
If a fever is accompanied by seizures, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is required.

3. How to Manage Fever in Children

3.1. Check the Child’s Temperature

Use a thermometer to determine the fever level:

Mild fever: 37.5°C – 38°C (99.5°F – 100.4°F)
Moderate fever: 38.1°C – 39°C (100.6°F – 102.2°F)
High fever: Above 39°C (102.2°F)

3.2. Proper Fever Reduction Methods

Keep the child hydrated by offering breast milk, water, or oral rehydration solutions like Oresol.
Dress the child in light clothing and avoid heavy blankets.
Use a warm, damp cloth to wipe the child's forehead, armpits, and groin to help reduce body temperature.
Administer fever-reducing medication (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) only if the fever is above 38.5°C (101.3°F) and as directed by a doctor.

3.3. Monitor Other Symptoms

If the fever is mild and the child eats, drinks, and plays normally, home monitoring is sufficient.
If the child experiences seizures, persistent vomiting, refusal to eat, lethargy, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

4. How to Prevent Fever in Children

4.1. Strengthen the Immune System

Breastfeed exclusively for the first six months to boost immunity.
Provide a balanced diet with vitamins and minerals from vegetables, fruits, and protein-rich foods.

4.2. Maintain Personal Hygiene

Teach children to wash their hands regularly with soap to prevent infections.
Clean children's toys and personal items frequently.

4.3. Ensure Complete Vaccination

Take children for routine vaccinations according to the health department’s immunization schedule to protect them from dangerous infectious diseases.

4.4. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Keep children warm in cold weather and avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Maintain a comfortable room temperature and avoid setting air conditioning too low.

4.5. Limit Exposure to Sick People

During outbreaks, avoid crowded places.
If someone in the household is sick, maintain hygiene and distance.

5. When to Take Your Child to the Doctor?

Although fever is usually a normal immune response, parents should seek medical help if the child shows any of the following signs:

Fever above 39°C (102.2°F) that does not improve after taking fever-reducing medication.
Seizures, bluish skin (cyanosis), or difficulty breathing.
Fever lasting more than three days without a known cause.
Severe lethargy, unconsciousness, or refusal to eat or drink.

6. Conclusion

Fever in children is a common occurrence and is not usually dangerous if managed correctly. However, parents should closely monitor their child’s condition to ensure timely intervention when necessary. Strengthening immunity, maintaining hygiene, and ensuring proper vaccinations are the best ways to prevent fever. If any unusual symptoms arise, take the child to a healthcare facility for a thorough evaluation and treatment.