DailyMirror.news,August 14th,2024:Fevers are becoming more prevalent, with temperatures spiking to 104 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The most common conditions include Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, viral respiratory infections (particularly RSV), Chikungunya, Dengue, Typhoid, and gut infections. Among these, viral respiratory infections are leading to the highest number of hospital admissions.

Essential Tips for Managing Fevers:

First Aid for Fevers:

  • Paracetamol First: Begin treatment with Paracetamol (such as Crocin, Calpol, or T98). Ensure that you follow the recommended dosage on the label, with at least a 4-hour gap between doses.
  • For Persistent High Fevers: If Paracetamol doesn’t reduce the fever, consult your pediatrician before using Ibuprofen (Ibugesic) or Mefenamic acid (Meftal P). These medications should be used cautiously due to possible side effects, such as stomach acidity and an increased risk of seizures in children under 6 years old.

Caution with Antibiotics:

  • Avoid Unnecessary Use: Do not use antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viruses, and their misuse can cause more harm than good, including masking serious conditions. Only a few cases, like dysentery, UTIs, and specific bacterial infections, have recently required antibiotics.

Seizure Awareness:

  • Be Prepared: Parents, especially those with children under 6, should be familiar with first aid for seizures, as fever-induced seizures are a possibility.

Keep Hydrated:

  • Proper Hydration: Ensure your child is well-hydrated. Avoid giving them glucose or sugar water. Instead, choose WHO-recommended ORS, coconut water, fresh fruits, soups, or breast milk.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

  • Pediatric Consultation: If the fever persists for more than 3-5 days, or if there are other symptoms such as severe headache, persistent vomiting, drowsiness, breathlessness, seizures, poor fluid intake, or the appearance of new symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

Final Note: Accurate diagnosis and timely medical guidance are essential. Antibiotics are rarely needed for most fevers. Always consult with your pediatrician for the correct diagnosis and treatment plan Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh