When the temperature rises, many parents rush to the medicine cabinet. The fear that the fever will run away often takes precedence over reason. However, fever is not the enemy. A study conducted between August and September 2022 by the University of Michigan among parents of children under 12 reveals that a third of them give fever medication.although it is not necessary“. A figure which illustrates the universal anguish of parents faced with a burning front.
Fever is not an illness
Dr Gérald Kierzek recalls that it is part of the body’s natural defense mechanism: “Mild outbreaks of fever can occur in children for no reason, and they pass on their own, without the need for treatment.. This reaction of the body helps prevent viruses and bacteria from multiplying, while stimulating the production of white blood cells and antibodies.
The American study highlights that the majority of parents know that a moderate fever helps the body fight infection. However, some continue to rely solely on the touch of the forehead. The researchers point out that “half of parents may not realize that different ways of measuring temperature can lead to different results“. In infants and young children, the rectal route remains the most reliable.
Treat only for the comfort of the child
Scientists at CS Mott Children’s Hospital insist: lowering a fever does not shorten the illness. “The main reason for treating a fever is simply to keep their child comfortable.”. Dr Woolford, co-author of the study, also warns of excess zeal. “A quarter of parents would give their child more medicine to prevent the fever from returning, even if it doesn’t help them get better..
An attitude that can mask important signs. “Medications used to lower temperatures also treat pain, but pain is often a sign that helps locate the source of an infection.”. By erasing this signal, parents risk delaying a diagnosis.
Dr. Kierzek shares this caution: if the child plays, laughs and eats, it is better to monitor him rather than medicate him.
On the other hand, if the fever exceeds 38.5°C or 39°C, whether it is accompanied by a change in behavior, unusual fatigue or persists beyond two days, a consultation is necessary.
And if the child is very young, we should be extra careful.”For a child under three months old, you should always consult as soon as a fever appears.” specifies the emergency doctor.
Paracetamol, hydration and common sense
The reference treatment remains simple. “And for treatment, it is always paracetamol as first intention, with a dose of 60 mg per kg per day.. The doctor also recommends a few essential actions: uncover the child lightly, keep him in a cool room, often offer a drink. These measures promote the body’s natural recovery.
Each fever actually tells a story: that of an organism that struggles. Parents must learn to read it without panic. Observe, understand, support – that’s the real key. Fever is not an enemy to be defeated, but a signal to be listened to.