Should a baby with a low fever of 37.7°C be kept warm or cooled down?

May 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
A low-grade fever of 37.7°C refers to a mild fever at 37.7°C. When a baby has a low-grade fever of 37.7°C, it's important to both dissipate heat and maintain warmth. In the short term, pay attention to the baby's mood to prevent resistance toward treatment, and regulate indoor temperature, avoiding large differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures. Additionally, ensure adequate hydration to prevent dehydration during the period of fever reduction.

A low fever of 37.7 usually refers to a mild fever at 37.7°C. When a baby has a mild fever of 37.7°C, it's important to both dissipate heat and maintain warmth. Specific measures are as follows:

Mild fever is a relatively common condition. If not treated promptly, the illness may worsen and body temperature could continue to rise. Therefore, once a fever is detected, immediate steps such as wiping the body with alcohol or giving a lukewarm water bath should be taken to help cool the body and reduce internal temperature. During the cooling process, the body may sweat significantly. If proper warmth is not maintained, the child may catch a chill again, which would hinder recovery. Hence, while cooling the body, it's also essential to ensure adequate warmth.

In the short term, pay attention to the baby's mood to prevent resistance to treatment, and regulate indoor temperature to avoid large differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures. It's also important to ensure sufficient hydration to prevent dehydration during the fever-reducing period. If the mild fever worsens, take the baby to the hospital promptly for medical care.