What should I do if a one-year-old child has a fever of 38.1°C?

Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A temperature of 38.1°C in a one-year-old child may be caused by factors such as high environmental temperature, excessive heat production after physical activity, infantile emergency rash (roseola), acute upper respiratory tract infection, acute bronchitis, or other reasons. Treatment options may include general care and medication therapy under a doctor's guidance. If the child experiences other discomfort symptoms, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. High Environmental Temperature

The thermoregulatory center in one-year-old children is not yet fully developed. If the child is in a high-temperature environment, such as a room that is too warm or is overdressed or overwrapped, the body's ability to dissipate heat may be affected, leading to heat accumulation and fever. It is recommended to maintain a suitable indoor temperature, adjust the child's clothing according to the environment, and avoid excessive wrapping.

2. Excessive Heat Production After Physical Activity

After vigorous exercise, a child's metabolism accelerates, and muscle activity produces a large amount of heat. However, the child's heat dissipation mechanisms are relatively weak and unable to promptly release excess heat, which may lead to fever. It is recommended to plan the child's activities reasonably, avoid prolonged vigorous exercise, and provide adequate hydration after exercise to assist with cooling down.

3. Infantile Emergency Rash (Roseola)

Infantile emergency rash is mainly caused by infection with human herpesvirus type 6 or 7. After the virus invades the body, it stimulates the immune system, triggering an immune response that disrupts the function of the thermoregulatory center and causes fever. This condition is often accompanied by irritability, reduced appetite, diarrhea, and other symptoms. It is recommended to use medications such as ibuprofen suspension, acetaminophen drops, or ganciclovir dispersible tablets under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

4. Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Acute upper respiratory tract infection is primarily caused by viral or bacterial infections. The pathogens infect the upper respiratory tract, triggering an inflammatory response that leads to the aforementioned symptoms. Symptoms may also include nasal congestion and runny nose. Medications such as Xiao'er Chuiqiao Qingre Granules, amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium dry suspension, and ibuprofen granules may be used under medical supervision to relieve symptoms.

5. Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is often caused by viral or bacterial infections and typically occurs secondary to upper respiratory tract infections. The pathogens infect the bronchi, causing inflammation and resulting in fever. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and rapid breathing. Symptomatic treatment can be carried out under medical advice using medications such as ribavirin aerosol, cefaclor dry suspension, and ambroxol oral solution.

In daily life, attention should be paid to the child's personal hygiene, frequent handwashing, timely adjustment of clothing according to weather changes, ensuring indoor air circulation, and reducing pathogen proliferation.