Question
The baby is ten months old and has a fever, with an ear thermometer reading of 37.8 degrees. How should I handle this?
Answer
When a child has a fever, you can use Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to reduce the fever. In Taiwan, Ibuprofen comes in various forms, including suspensions, oral liquids, and granules, all of which have the same effect as they are both antipyretic and analgesic medications. Taking them when the child has a fever can reduce the fever and also have an anti-inflammatory effect when not feverish. It is recommended to take them every four hours. For children with a body temperature above 38.5 degrees, you can give them fever-reducing medication. However, if the temperature has not reached 38.5 degrees but the child is feeling unwell, you can also consider giving medication. Before administering the medication, make sure there are no other drug allergies or special medical conditions. Additionally, do not give fever-reducing medication without confirming the child’s temperature.