Question
An 8-month-old child has a rectal temperature of 39.5 degrees Celsius the day after a fever onset, and 1/3 of a rectal suppository is administered; that night, the rectal temperature is 39 degrees Celsius, and another 1/3 of a rectal suppository is used; the next morning, the rectal temperature is 38 degrees Celsius, and the rectal suppository is continued with 1/3 of a dose. The child cries and fusses during the morning, refusing to eat. By noon, the rectal temperature drops to 36.5 degrees Celsius, below normal, suspecting that it’s due to medication, and inquiring about expert advice on handling the situation and the severity of the illness.
Answer
When a child has a fever, parents should remain calm and not panic or treat it casually. First, analyze the cause of the fever; it is usually due to an infection, such as viral influenza or the common cold, followed by bacterial infections like tonsillitis; non-infectious fevers include heatstroke and dehydration. Next, observe the type of fever, record the body temperature, and pay attention to accompanying symptoms. Do not overuse antibiotics as they are mostly ineffective against viruses and may suppress immune function. Fever is the body’s natural response to fighting bacteria, and medication may affect immune ability. Parents should handle it with caution and seek professional medical help when necessary.