Should I cover my baby with a blanket when they have a fever and are sleeping?

Jan 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng

Introduction

Whether to cover a baby with a blanket when they have a fever depends on the specific situation. During the phase when body temperature is rising, accompanied by symptoms such as chills, a light blanket may be used to keep warm and relieve discomfort caused by low temperatures. However, when the fever is high and there are no chills, covering the baby with a blanket should be avoided, as it may interfere with heat dissipation and trigger other discomforts. Therefore, it is important to closely monitor the baby's temperature changes during this period in order to promptly adjust care measures.

Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Whether or not to cover a baby with a blanket when he or she has a fever mainly depends on the specific situation. If the body temperature is still rising and accompanied by chills, covering with a blanket is usually acceptable. However, if the fever is high and not accompanied by chills, it is not recommended. If the baby experiences any discomfort, prompt medical attention is advised. Here is a detailed explanation:

If the baby's body temperature is in the rising phase and accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, pale skin, and chills, covering with a blanket is usually appropriate. This can help relieve symptoms such as cold hands and feet and shivering caused by fever. Appropriate warmth during the rising phase of fever can also help the baby feel more comfortable and prevent other discomforts caused by excessive cooling. However, the blanket should not be too thick, as this may hinder heat dissipation.

If the baby's body temperature has already risen to a high level without chills but with symptoms such as flushed face and excessive sweating, covering with a blanket is generally not recommended. At this stage, covering may interfere with heat dissipation and could even cause the temperature to rise further. Additionally, if the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, it is important to follow medical advice and administer medications such as ibuprofen suspension, compound pediatric fever suppositories, or paracetamol oral solution as needed.

Therefore, the decision to cover the baby with a blanket should be based on his or her specific condition. At the same time, during the baby's fever, close monitoring of body temperature changes is necessary to adjust care measures promptly.

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