Fever is a physiological response to infection and should be viewed as a sign of the body’s immune response rather than an illness that requires treatment solely to normalize temperature. Supportive care includes adequate hydration, continued breastfeeding and nutrition, light clothing, and maintaining a comfortable room temperature. Tepid sponging may be considered for comfort, whereas cold water or ice baths should be avoided as they can cause shivering and increase metabolic demand.

Paracetamol (PCM) may be used when the child is uncomfortable, with dosing based on age and body weight and according to appropriate pediatric guidance. Aspirin should be avoided in children because of the risk of Reye syndrome, particularly in the setting of viral infections; antipyretic use should be individualized based on the child’s clinical condition rather than temperature alone. Watch this…