Should you take fever-reducing medication for a fever of 39°C?

A fever of 39°C refers to a body temperature of 39°C, which usually requires taking antipyretic medication.

A temperature of 39°C is considered a high fever and should be treated with antipyretic drugs under medical guidance. Commonly used antipyretics include ibuprofen sustained-release capsules and acetaminophen (paracetamol) capsules, which help reduce fever and relieve pain. Additionally, if the fever is caused by a wind-heat type cold, medications such as Lianhua Qingwen capsules or Qingre Jiedu oral liquid may be taken as directed by a physician. If it results from a wind-cold type cold, medications like Banlangen granules or Xiaochaihu granules may be used under medical supervision to help alleviate symptoms such as headache, runny nose, and fever. In cases of bacterial infection, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial medications such as amoxicillin capsules or cefixime dispersible tablets may be taken as prescribed. For fevers caused by viral infections, antiviral treatments such as ribavirin granules or oseltamivir phosphate capsules may be used under a doctor's guidance.

In addition to medication, physical cooling methods can also be used alongside treatment to lower body temperature. These include wiping areas rich in blood vessels—such as the neck, armpits, and groin—with lukewarm water.