Treating a fever

If your child has a fever, it'simportant to keep them hydrated by giving them plenty of cool water to drink.

Babies should be given plenty of liquids, such as breast milk or formula.Even if your child isn't thirsty, try to get them to drink little and often to keep their fluid levels up.

If the environment is warm,you couldhelp to your child to stay at a comfortable temperature by covering them with a lightweight sheet or opening a window.

However, they should still be appropriately dressed for their surroundings and sponging your child with coolwaterisn't recommendedto reduce a fever.

Antipyretics

Children's paracetamol or ibuprofen work as antipyretics, whichhelp to reduce fever, as well as being painkillers.You can't give them both at the same time, but if one doesn't work, you may want to try the other later.

Antipyretics aren't always necessary. If your child isn't distressed by the fever or underlying illness, there's no need to use antipyretics to reduce a fever.

When using antipyretics, always read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medication to find the correct dose and frequency for your child's age.

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