Question
How should you treat a 11-month-old baby’s fever of 38.5 degrees?
Answer
Fever is a common symptom in infants, typically caused by a cold. Since the thermoregulatory center of an 11-month-old baby is not fully developed, they are more susceptible to temperature fluctuations due to external influences. Generally, if the baby’s temperature does not exceed 38 degrees, physical cooling methods can be employed, such as wiping the body with alcohol or washing the face and forehead with warm water. If the temperature goes above 38 degrees, ibuprofen suspension or naproxen can be considered as fever-reducing medications. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before administering medication to ensure the baby’s safety.