What should I do if my baby has recurring fevers?

Generally, recurrent fever in infants may be caused by an immature immune system, large fluctuations in environmental temperature, viral upper respiratory tract infections, acute otitis media, bacterial pneumonia, or other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general treatment and medication. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Immature immune system: An infant's immune system is not yet fully developed, making them more susceptible to pathogens, which can lead to recurrent fevers. This typically improves gradually with age. Ensure adequate nutrition daily, continue breastfeeding or provide appropriate formula, follow the recommended vaccination schedule, and encourage outdoor activities to enhance resistance.

2. Large fluctuations in environmental temperature: Frequent movement between environments with significant temperature differences can lead to recurrent fever due to infants' poor thermoregulation, often accompanied by mild irritability. Adjust clothing promptly according to temperature changes, maintain indoor temperatures between 22–26°C, avoid direct exposure to cold drafts, and change wet clothes promptly after sweating to reduce thermal stress on the body.

3. Viral upper respiratory tract infection: Recurrent fever may occur if the virus remains in the body after infection, often accompanied by nasal congestion and runny nose. Ensure the infant gets plenty of rest and drinks ample warm water. If body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, use antipyretics such as acetaminophen drops, ibuprofen suspension drops, or children's cold syrup as directed by a physician. Nasal saline drops can help relieve nasal congestion.

4. Acute otitis media: Bacterial infection of the middle ear can cause recurrent fever if not treated thoroughly, often accompanied by ear pain and ear-pulling during crying. Follow medical advice to use medications such as cefaclor dry mixable suspension, ofloxacin ear drops, or amoxicillin granules. Avoid milk aspiration during feeding.

5. Bacterial pneumonia: Inflammation caused by bacterial infection of the lungs can lead to recurrent fever if the infection is not controlled, often accompanied by coughing and wheezing. Follow medical advice to use antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium granules, cefixime granules, or azithromycin dry suspension. Nebulization with budesonide suspension can help alleviate coughing, and sufficient fluid intake should be ensured.

When infants experience recurrent fever, ensure regular sleep patterns and provide light, easily digestible foods such as rice water and fruit puree. Maintain good indoor ventilation, regularly clean toys and daily necessities to reduce pathogen exposure, and support recovery.