Is a fever of 38°C serious in a baby over one year old?
Disease description:
My child is now one and a half years old and frequently develops fevers at night. I’d prefer not to take him to the hospital for injections and would like to try physical cooling methods instead. However, I’m concerned that a temperature of 38°C might already be quite high and could potentially worsen his condition. So, I’d like to ask: Is a fever of 38°C considered serious in a child over one year old?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Xiaorong
A baby’s fever of 38°C indicates a relatively significant elevation in body temperature. Physical cooling methods can be used to lower the temperature. If the fever persists without reduction, oral antipyretic medication may be necessary; in some cases, medical evaluation at a hospital is required—prolonged high fever can easily lead to complications affecting the brain and lungs. During this time, ensure the baby drinks plenty of fluids.
