Question
What measures can be taken when a baby has a fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius?
Answer
If your baby suddenly has a fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius at night, with a temperature taken under the armpit, and the fever does not rise any further, is it necessary to give them fever-reducing medication? Is simple physical therapy sufficient for this temperature? If so, what type of physical therapy is best? It is often said that fever medication should not be given if the temperature is below 38.5 degrees Celsius. Is this based on an armpit or rectal temperature reading? The armpit temperature should be increased by 0.5 degrees, making it a high fever of 39 degrees, at which point fever-reducing medication can be used to alleviate symptoms, such as acetaminophen sustained-release tablets or oral drops. If the temperature is around 38.5 degrees, you can consider trying to lower the fever physically, such as giving your child a warm bath to enhance skin heat conduction, which they may not like, and ensure they drink plenty of water and wear loose clothing, while also being mindful of keeping them warm. These are suggestions for dealing with the situation of a 15-month-old with a fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius, and I hope they are helpful to you. Wishing you good health!