A normal temperature is about 36.4°C, but this does differ slightly from child to child. A fever is usually considered to be a temperature of over 37.5°C. A fever is not an illness in itself, but is a sign that the body is trying to fight off an infection or illness. As well as a high temperature, a fever is often accompanied by shivers, a hot forehead, poor appetite, irritability and lethargy.

What are the treatment options?

If a child has a fever and appears distressed, they can be given an appropriate child dose of ibuprofen (example: Nurofen for Children) or paracetamol (example: Calpol). Paracetamol is suitable for babies from two months (for post-immunisation fever) and ibuprofen from three months. Always check the pack to make sure the product is suitable for the age of the child, and the customer understands the dosage instructions.

Parents should also:

• Encourage the child to drink fluids (if breastfed, the most appropriate fluid is breast milk)
• Check for signs of dehydration (e.g. dry mouth, sunken eyes, absence of tears, poor overall appearance) and seek further advice if these signs are noticed
• Check the child in the night.