Many kids experience daily exposure to circulating viruses at school or in childcare throughout the rainy months. And one of the first obvious indicators that a child has caught a bug is frequently a warm forehead.
Fever in Children
A fever is an increase in the body temperature of your child. The average body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C). Fever is commonly defined as a temperature of more than 100.4°F (38°C). A fever in a young child can be dangerous.
A viral infection is the most prevalent cause of fever. A fever is produced by your child’s body to aid in the battle against the infection. It is possible that the source of your child’s fever is unknown.
What temperature is considered a fever in children?
- A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or greater in the ear or forehead
- Temperature of 100°F (37.8°C) or greater in the mouth or pacifier
- A temperature in the armpits of 99°F (37.2°C) or higher
What is the most effective method for taking my child’s temperature?
The following are age-appropriate guidelines. Inquire with your child’s healthcare professional about the best approach to take his or her temperature.
- Take your baby’s temperature under his or her armpit if he or she is 3 months or younger.
- Use an electronic pacifier temperature, depending on your child’s age, if he or she is 3 months to 5 years old.
- You can also take an ear, armpit, or forehead temperature after the age of 6 months.
- Take an oral, ear, or forehead temperature if your child is 5 years old or older.
Image from iStock
What Does The Survey Say?
A recent nationwide survey was conducted in the University of Michigan Health’s Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.
Based on 1,376 replies from parents of children aged 12 and under who were surveyed between August and September 2022, it was revealed that some parents may not be appropriately detecting or reacting to children’s rising temperatures.
While the majority of parents understand that a low-grade fever aids a child’s body in fighting infection, the C.S. found that one in three parents would administer fever-reducing medication for elevated temperatures below 100.4, which isn’t advised.
If the fever was between 100.4 and 101.9 degrees, half of the parents would also give medication, and a quarter of parents were likely to administer another dose to stop the fever from returning.
Fever Medication for Kids
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There are several types of medication that can be used to treat a fever, including:
1. Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is a common fever medication that works by reducing the production of certain chemicals in the body that causes fever and pain. It is generally safe for most people, but it’s important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended dose.
2. Ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin)
Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication that can help reduce fever as well as inflammation and pain. It’s important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended dose.
If your child is using blood thinners, always check to see if NSAIDs are safe for him or her. Always read the medication label and follow the directions exactly. Do not administer these medications to children under the age of 6 months unless directed by a healthcare provider.
3. Aspirin
Aspirin is another anti-inflammatory medication that can help reduce fever and relieve pain but children under the age of 18 should not be given aspirin. If your child gets the flu or fever and consumes aspirin, he or she may develop Reye syndrome. Reye syndrome can result in fatal brain and liver damage. Examine the labels of your child’s medications for aspirin or salicylates.
In addition to these medications, it’s also important to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities.
There are many different kinds of paediatric fever medications. Each prescription comes with particular instructions for use, so parents and caregivers should carefully read the label.
Paracetamol Dosage for Kids
Brand names: Calpol, Disprol, Hedex, Medinol, Panadol
There are many strengths of paracetamol tablets, syrup, and suppositories. Children, depending on their age and, in some cases, weight, require a lesser dose than adults.
The correct dosage of paracetamol for kids depends on their weight and age. It’s important to always follow the instructions on the packaging or as directed by a healthcare professional. In general, the recommended dosage of paracetamol for children is:
Syrup doses for children
Baby syrup (sometimes known as “junior syrup”) is intended for children under the age of six. A 5ml dosage of paracetamol contains 120mg.
Six plus (6+) syrup is intended for youngsters aged 6 and up. A 5ml dosage of paracetamol has 250mg.
Important note: Do not give your child more than four doses of paracetamol in a 24-hour period. Allow at least four hours between dosages.
Doses for babies aged 2 months
If your infant is in pain or has a fever (even after vaccines), give them 1 dose of paracetamol syrup (or 1 suppository).
The standard dosage is 2.5 ml of baby syrup (or a 60mg suppository).
See your doctor or health visitor if your infant was born prematurely or is underweight for their age. They may suggest a lesser dose.
If your infant needs it, you can give them another dosage of syrup 4 hours later. If their temperature remains high after this, call your doctor or a pharmacist.
Infant syrup: 120mg/5ml
Dosage for infant syrup (strength 120mg/5ml) showing by age how much to give and how often
| Age |
How much? |
How often? |
| 3 to 5 months |
2.5ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 6 to 23 months |
5ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 2 to 4 years |
7.5ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 4 to 6 years |
10 ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
Six plus (6+) syrup: 250mg/5ml
Paracetamol 250mg/5ml syrup dosages for children by age, how much to give and how often
| Age |
How much? |
How often? |
| 6 to 8 years |
5ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 8 to 10 years |
7.5ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 10 to 12 years |
10ml |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
Tablet doses for children
Tablets are typically available in 500mg or 250mg strengths (Calpol Fastmelts).
Important note: Do not give your child more than four doses of paracetamol in a 24-hour period. Allow at least four hours between dosages.
Tablets
Paracetamol tablet dosages for children by age, how much to give, and how often
| Age |
How much? |
How often? |
| 6 to 8 years |
250mg |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 8 to 10 years |
375mg |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 10 to 12 years |
500mg |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
| 12 to 16 years |
750mg |
Max 4 times in 24 hours |
It’s important not to exceed the recommended dose, as this can lead to serious side effects.
If you give your child one extra paracetamol dose, wait at least 24 hours before giving them another.
If you have any questions or concerns about the appropriate dosage for your child, you should consult with a healthcare professional. Additionally, paracetamol should not be used for prolonged periods of time without consulting with a healthcare professional.
Image Source: iStock
Republished with permission from theAsianparent Singapore
Science Daily, NHS, Drugs
Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it’s important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn’t serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.
