A child with fever who is alert, playing, drinking fluids, and not appearing very unwell is generally reassuring. In my practice, I always look at the child's behaviour more than the number on the thermometer. That said, fever lasting more than five days, fever accompanied by a rash, a child who is increasingly lethargic or refusing fluids, or fever returning after a clear day, all warrant a clinical review. In Noida during dengue season, I am especially watchful for these warning patterns.
Written by Dr. Neha Garg, MBBS, DCH, MD Pediatrics, Consultant Pediatrician, Prime Neuro And Child Clinic, SK 238, Sector 116, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201316. Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 2 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM. Phone: +91 9560254990.
