HOW TO... CHECK YOUR BABY’S TEMPERATURE

WHEN babies fall ill it can be difficult for parents to determine whether something is wrong – especially in very young babies who cannot yet communicate.

Often one of the quickest and easiest ways to find out is by taking a baby’s temperature.

Here, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health’s (RCPCH) Officer for Wales, Dr David Tuthill, provides practical advice for parents on how to accurately check it – and what to do if it’s too high.

What is a normal temperature for a baby?

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A normal temperature is around 36-37°C for most babies and children.

What is the best and most accurate way of measuring their temperature?

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At home, the easiest way of measuring a baby’s temperature is by using a thermometer.

A digital thermometer can give you a fast and accurate reading and these can be bought at most supermarkets, chemists or pharmacies. The most common thermometers take measurements either under the armpit or in the ear.

To take your child’s temperature using a digital under-the-arm thermometer you should:

■ hold them comfortably on your knee and put the thermometer in their armpit – always place the thermometer in the armpit of children under five

■ gently but firmly hold their arm against their body to keep the thermometer in place for the time stated in the manufacturer’s instructions

■ the display on the thermometer will then show your child’s temperature

Being wrapped in a blanket, in a hot room and having a bath can affect the reading of the thermometer, so to ensure an accurate reading is given it’s important to wait a few minutes after removing them from a bath, hot room or blanket.

What is classed as a “high” temperature?

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A high temperature above 38°C is called a fever. There are two common reasons why children and babies have a raised temperature:

■ their body is fighting an infection such as bronchiolitis or ear infection

■ they have got too hot in their surroundings (eg a baby overwrapped or left in a car in the summer).

If your child or baby has a fever, normally they feel hotter than usual to the touch. Use the back of your hand to touch their forehead, back or stomach. They may feel sweaty, clammy or have flushed cheeks.

What should I do if my baby has a high temperature?

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If it’s due to their environment, cool them down by removing their wrappings and giving cool drinks.

If it’s due to infection, does your child look ill enough to need medical attention?

Most children with minor fevers and mild illnesses, such as coughs and colds, don’t need to see a doctor or pharmacist.

Keep them well hydrated, and regularly check on them.

With breastfed babies, offer plenty of feeds.

Babies under six months are more vulnerable to infections and so if they have a high temperature or other symptoms such as a non-blanching rash, you should seek medical help/ advice.

A baby’s temperature can be raised following vaccinations.

For the meningitis (meningococcal B) vaccination, it is advisable to give paracetamol just before they receive their vaccinations to prevent their temperature escalating.

If you are concerned about your baby’s temperature or are worried about other side effects related to their vaccinations, speak to your GP or practice nurse.

How can a very high temperature affect a baby?

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An infection that leads to a high temperature can make a baby irritable, dehydrated and generally not themselves.

The fever is part of your body’s response to fighting infection.

A raised temperature against infection isn’t dangerous in itself; it’s what’s causing the infection that may be.

Although high temperature will come down with over-thecounter medication such as paracetamol, I don’t advise this routinely as it make the infection last longer.

If worried, speak to your healthcare professional.

How can I bring my baby’s temperature down?

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Over the counter medication such as paracetamol can bring a baby’s temperature down, but aren’t routinely required.

I advise treating children who are upset from their infection rather than just trying to bring the temperature down.

Paracetamol can relive this very well. Keeping them cool and well hydrated can also help.

It is easy, especially in the hot summer months, for babies to overheat.

Keep them cool by giving them a cool bath, dressing in loose clothing, drinking plenty of water and wearing a sun hat.

A baby having a high temperature is often a good indicator of them being unwell or having become overheated.

As a parent you often know when something isn’t quite right so if you have any concerns relating to your baby’s health, contact your family doctor as soon as possible.