What should I do if a two-year-old child has a fever of 39°C?

Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature, and 39 degrees means 39°C. A fever of 39°C in a two-year-old child is considered high-grade fever. High fever increases the risk of febrile seizures. It can be managed through physical cooling methods, antipyretic medications, anti-infective treatments, and other approaches. At the same time, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

1. Physical Cooling

After the baby develops a fever, giving them a lukewarm bath may help. The water temperature should be moderate and kept constant during bathing, which helps dissipate heat. Wiping the body with lukewarm water during the bath aids in removing excess surface body heat and contributes to lowering body temperature.

2. Use of Antipyretic Medications

Under a doctor's guidance, feverish babies can take antipyretic medicines such as ibuprofen granules or acetaminophen (paracetamol) granules. After taking oral antipyretics, the child should drink small amounts of warm water frequently to assist in reducing fever, maintain hydration, and prevent dehydration.

3. Anti-infective Treatment

If the fever is caused by a viral infection, antiviral medications such as ribavirin granules or oseltamivir granules may be prescribed under medical supervision.

If the baby’s fever persists or recurs, if high fever does not subside, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing or lethargy, immediate medical attention is required to prevent complications such as febrile seizures or convulsions.