Question

The 3-month-old baby just measured a neck temperature of 38 degrees Celsius on the bed. Is this considered a fever? What should I do?

Answer

The normal armpit temperature for humans is around 36 to 37 degrees Celsius. The neck temperature of your child, measured at 38 degrees Celsius, indicates that the child indeed has a fever. Here are some suggestions for handling the situation:

  1. If convenient, you can frequently use lukewarm water to wipe your child’s body to help lower the temperature. If it’s not suitable due to weather conditions, you can use fever-reducing patches placed on the child’s forehead.
  2. If the child’s temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, you can use fever-reducing medication for symptomatic treatment.
  3. If the child’s temperature is below 39.5 degrees Celsius or if the child’s mental state is not good, you should seek medical attention promptly.
  4. The child’s body temperature in the crib may be slightly higher, usually by about 0.5 to 1 degree, which needs special attention.