Health notebook: Fevers

Paediatrician Dr Ngwezi says, “Babies can have a low grade temperature between 37 and 37.5º C, but this is not always considered a fever. Make sure the baby is not overdressed or in a hot environment.

“A temperature between 37.5 and 38º C is regarded as an elevation in temperature and indicates the presence of a mild infection or a reaction to immunisation.

“A temperature of more than 38º C is defined as fever. This indicates either viral or bacterial illness. Try bringing it down with a lukewarm bath and keep him cool, and if there is no success, paracetamol can be given with caution. If there’s no change after an hour, the baby must be taken to the doctor or hospital. Children with a temperature exceeding 38.5º C are at a danger of developing febrile convulsions.”