Is a child's recurring low-grade fever caused by a virus or bacteria?

Recurrent low-grade fever in children may be caused by viral infections, bacterial infections, or could be related to immune or blood disorders.

1. Viral infection: Infections caused by pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Helicobacter pylori, and Coxsackie virus can lead to diseases including tuberculosis, pneumonia, and peptic ulcers. Children with these infections often experience recurrent low-grade fever. During flu season, low-grade fever caused by influenza is relatively common, typically lasting around 3–5 days, although some individuals may experience it for up to a week. Treatment for viral infections should be based on the specific type of infection. For example, a fever of 38°C due to viral upper respiratory tract infection is usually self-limiting; physical cooling methods such as applying a cooling forehead patch can be used, and under medical guidance, oral medications like ribavirin granules or antiviral mixtures may also be administered.

2. Bacterial infection: Persistent low-grade fever in children is often due to infections. Children have relatively weaker immune systems, so even mild colds or bacterial infections can result in prolonged fever. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, treatment may include oral antibiotics such as azithromycin or cefaclor granules.

3. Immune and blood disorders: Besides viral and bacterial infections, recurrent low-grade fever may also stem from non-infectious conditions such as acute leukemia, immunodeficiency disorders, or tumors. Rheumatic autoimmune diseases and cancers may also cause persistent low-grade fevers, though such cases are relatively rare in daily practice.

Recurrent low-grade fever in children can be influenced by various factors. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance.