Advise for Parents and Carers When Your Child Has a Fever

• Look for signs of dehydration including poor urine output, dry mouth, sunken fontanelle (“soft spot”), absence of tears, sunken eyes, and poor overall appearance.

• Offer regular fluids (if breastfeeding, continue this as normal) and encourage a higher intake if signs of dehydration develop.

• Dress the child appropriately for their surroundings, with the aim of preventing overheating or shivering.

• Avoid using tepid sponging (using cool water) to cool the child.

• Check the child regularly, including during the night.

• Keep the child away from nursery or school while the fever persists, and notify the nursery or school of the illness.

Seek medical help if:

• Your child is getting dehydrated.
• Your child has a fit.
• Your child develops a non-blanching rash.
• The fever lasts longer than 5 days.
• Your child is becoming more unwell.

If you are getting concerned.

More information is available at www.whenshouldiworry.com/