What to do if your baby has a fever

Generally, a baby's fever may be caused by factors such as excessively high environmental temperature, reactions after vaccination, viral upper respiratory tract infection, bacterial otitis media, or infantile emergency rash (roseola). It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general treatments, medications, etc. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. High environmental temperature: A hot and stuffy indoor environment or overdressing can temporarily elevate a baby's body temperature, causing fever, possibly accompanied by forehead sweating and irritability. The indoor temperature should be lowered to 24–26°C, and clothing and bedding should be reduced. Wiping the skin with lukewarm water can help dissipate heat and prevent interference with the body's temperature regulation due to excessive environmental heat.

2. Post-vaccination reaction: Some babies may develop a mild fever after vaccination due to the vaccine stimulating the immune system. Fever usually appears within 24–48 hours after vaccination and may be accompanied by slight fussiness. Allow the baby to rest more and offer适量 warm water. Medication is generally unnecessary if body temperature does not exceed 38.5°C. Close observation is sufficient, and symptoms typically resolve spontaneously within 1–2 days.

3. Viral upper respiratory tract infection: Viral infections can cause inflammation of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, leading to fever along with nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough. Ensure the baby gets sufficient sleep. When body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, use antipyretic medications such as acetaminophen drops, ibuprofen suspension drops, or children's cold relief syrup as directed by a physician. Nasal saline drops can help relieve nasal congestion.

4. Bacterial otitis media: Bacterial infection of the middle ear causes inflammation, resulting in persistent fever, ear pain, and ear-pulling during crying. Patients should use antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium granules, cefixime granules, or azithromycin dry suspension as directed by a physician. Avoid choking during feeding to reduce the risk of middle ear infection.

5. Infantile emergency rash (roseola): Caused by viral infection, this condition is characterized by sudden high fever lasting 3–5 days followed by a rash appearing after the fever subsides, with the baby's general condition remaining relatively good. Fever can be managed with medications such as acetaminophen suspension, ibuprofen suspension, or children's Chiao-Ko Qingre granules as directed by a physician. Offer plenty of water to promote metabolism. Once the rash appears, keep the skin clean; no special treatment is usually required.

When a baby has a fever, ensure good indoor air circulation and avoid excessive bundling. The diet should primarily consist of breast milk or formula, supplemented with适量 warm water. Complementary foods should be bland and easily digestible, such as rice porridge or fruit puree. Closely monitor changes in body temperature and mental status, and record the duration of fever to provide reference information for doctors' diagnosis.