Historical April 1986 report or notice. Original dates, prices and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
Q. How should I care for my child when a fever occurs? A.
A fever is usually a sign of a viral or bacterial infection.
When your child’s oral or rectal temperature is 101.3°F or above, a fever is present.
If the fever is extremely high (i.e., 104° or 105°F) or persistent; or if it occurs in an infant 3 months old or younger, contact your pediatrician immediately. Usually fevers are not harmful or life threatening; and can be treated at home with medication to help lower the body temperature. Aspirin or Acetomenophen (Tylenol, Tempra) should be given at recommended dosage for age and at regular intervals as indicated: Tylenol is the preferred medicine for fever control in such illnesses as ‘flu’ and chicken pox. Aspirin is to be avoided during these illnesses.
If fever is more than 104°F orally, you may need to give the child a lukewarm sponge bath in water for about 20-30 minutes following medication. Never sponge your child in alcohol because this traps body heat, and can lead to severe side effects such as seizures.
If fever persists, or your child has more serious symptoms, contact your pediatrician as soon as possible. Dr. Earline Brownridge Pediatrician People’s Clinic welcomes inquiries from readers. Only one question will be answered each month. Deadline is the 15th of every month. Send questions to Andrea Armstead, People’s Clinic, 5701 Delmar, St. Louis, MO 63112.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, April 1986.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1986_04.pdf, printed page(s) 3; PDF page(s) 3.
