What should I do if my baby has a fever of 38°C but is sleeping soundly?

When you find that your baby has a fever of 38°C but is still asleep, parents should remain calm and respond with the following measures:

1. Monitor the temperature: Use a thermometer to confirm your baby's body temperature. If the temperature continues to rise or exceeds 38.5°C, seek immediate medical attention.

2. Physical cooling: Gently wipe your baby's body with lukewarm water, especially areas with major blood vessels such as the neck, armpits, and inner thighs, to help dissipate heat. Avoid using alcohol or cold water, which may cause a sudden drop in body temperature and worsen symptoms.

3. Maintain ventilation: Ensure good air circulation in your baby's environment, keep the room at a comfortable temperature, and avoid overdressing or overwrapping the baby.

4. Hydration: To prevent dehydration, offer breast milk or warm water once the baby wakes up.

5. Monitor symptoms: Watch for other signs of discomfort in your baby, such as coughing or a runny nose. If the baby is breathing steadily and shows no obvious distress, you may observe for now. However, if the baby's temperature continues to rise or if there are severe symptoms such as persistent drowsiness, difficulty breathing, or seizures, these may indicate a serious illness, and immediate medical care should be sought.

6. Medication: If the fever is above 38°C and requires treatment, administer fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed by a physician, strictly following the dosage based on the baby's weight.

Even though your baby appears to be sleeping peacefully, fever may be associated with underlying health conditions, so it is important to consult a doctor at the hospital promptly.