Experts from KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH), a member of the SingHealth group, shares facts about fevers and home remedies to help a child break a fever.

Did You Know?

• Fever is the body's way to fight infection. However, it is not just caused by infections alone
• How high a fever it does not indicate the severity of the illness that is causing the fever
• Overwrapping and a generally hot environment can cause the body temperature of a child to be slightly above normal
• Fever caused by viral infections may persist for up to five to seven days and will only completely settle when the viral fever has resolved
• High fever per se does not cause brain damage, though a small percentage between six months to six years may have seizures with high fever. However, febrile seizures usually do not lead to brain damage

Home remedies for fevers

• Tepid sponging

o May help if the temperature is more than 39.5 °C
o Use tap or lukewarm water to sponge
o Apply the cool compress to forehead, nape of neck, armpits and groin
o Proceed to sponge body starting with the front then to the back. Avoid sponging for more than 30 minutes at a stretch
o Stop sponging when shivering occurs, or when the child turns blue
o When your child shivers, cover him up and wait a while before resuming sponging

• Encourage your child to take plenty of fluids
• Dress your child in light clothing to allow heat exchange
• Keep the room environment cool and well-ventilated to allow the ambient temperature to help bring the fever down

Learn about what to avoid giving your child during a fever and when to consult a doctor.

Visit Parent Hub, for more useful tips and guides to give your child a healthy start.

Read these next:
Common Childhood Conditions — Fever
Fighting Childhood Fevers