Things You Should Avoid When Your Child Has a Fever

Many mothers worry when their children develop a fever. However, a high temperature does not always indicate a serious condition. Some mild illnesses may cause a significant rise in body temperature, while certain serious illnesses may trigger only a mild fever but show other concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing.

In fact, fever can sometimes help the body fight infection. The real challenge is that many parents don’t know what to do when their child has a fever. According to raisingchildren.net.au, here are some things you should avoid when your child is running a fever.

1. Giving the Wrong Medication

The first instinct many parents have when they see a fever is to give medicine. However, it’s important to avoid mistakes when administering fever-reducing drugs:

• Never give children medications intended for adults.

• Do not give aspirin, as it can lead to serious conditions such as Reye’s syndrome.

• Avoid giving paracetamol (acetaminophen) to babies under 3 months unless prescribed by a doctor.

• Do not give ibuprofen to infants under 6 months.

• Always follow the correct dosage based on your child’s weight, and consult your pediatrician.

2. Using Cold or Icy Compresses

Some parents use cold compresses, ice, or cold baths to lower a child’s temperature. This is not recommended because:

• Sudden cooling may cause only a temporary drop in temperature.

• Once the bath ends, the fever usually returns.

Instead, gently sponge or wipe your child with lukewarm water to help dilate blood vessels and reduce heat more safely.

3. Overdressing or Bundling Up

Parents sometimes dress their sick child in multiple layers or cover them with thick blankets, thinking it will help them sweat out the fever. In reality, this traps heat and raises body temperature further.

👉 Dress your child in light, breathable clothing and use only a light sheet or blanket if needed.

4. Forcing Normal Activity

Do not push your child to carry on with normal activities when they have a fever. Rest is crucial for recovery. Sleep and downtime help the immune system fight infections more effectively.

At the same time, do not wake your child from sleep just to give fever medicine—let them rest.

5. Forcing Excessive Sleep

While rest is important, forcing children to sleep constantly may frustrate them, cause boredom, and disrupt their natural sleep patterns.

If your child wants to do quiet, light activities, allow it. Keeping them comfortable is more important than strict bed rest.

6. Forcing Food Intake

It is normal for children with fever to lose their appetite. Forcing them to eat can cause discomfort. Instead:

• Focus on keeping them hydrated to prevent dehydration.

• Offer soups or soft foods if they are willing.

• Let them eat at their own pace.

7. Giving Caffeinated Drinks

Avoid giving children caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, sodas, or energy drinks). Caffeine:

• Stimulates the nervous system, making sleep difficult.

• Can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

• Adds unnecessary strain on the cardiovascular system, which is already working hard during a fever.

Final Note

Stay calm and avoid overreacting when your child has a fever. Most fevers disappear within 3–4 days. Overdoing treatments or making the wrong choices may worsen the situation rather than help.