Read the Signs

Basic tips on taking a child's temperature

A fever isn’t an illness. It’s the body’s way of fighting common infections. Nonetheless, a high temperature is likely to make your child listless, and increases the risk of dehydration, so it’s worth bringing it down if your child is miserable, or his fever is very high (over 38.5-39 C, or 101.5-102.2 F).

A digital thermometer held under the tongue, or in the armpit, is a safe and easy way to check a child’s temperature.

A child over 5 can usually cooperate with a thermometer in the mouth. Normal body temp is up to 37 C (98.6 F) taken in the mouth, or 36.5 C (97.7 F) in the armpit.

Avoid overdressing your child when he’s feverish, as you may cause the temperature to rise even higher.

He may shiver and say he’s cold, but that’s because the air feels chilly relative to his hot body.

It doesn’t matter if a sick child won’t eat.

Right now fluids matter more than food. To tempt your child to drink, try offering a straw, sugary drinks are also good.

Many over-the-counter remedies, from ibuprofen to decongestants, are available in versions suitable for children.

Always get the pharmacist’s advice before buying, and check the label carefully before giving your child a single dose.

If your child has been vomiting, try giving just small sips of clear fluid.

His stomach can’t cope with large quantities right now. He may be thirsty, but guzzling a whole glass down will probably see it come back before long.