What temperatures are dangerous for your child?

Fever in children: What you should know and bear in mind

A fever in your child can be worrying - and rightly so. It is a sign that the body is working against pathogens. At the same time, it is important to take your own concerns and your child's signals seriously. Here you can find out what you should look out for and when medical help is needed.

Normal body temperature in children

The body temperature of children is between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius. Deviations from this mean:

• Undertemperaturebelow 36.5 degrees
• Increased temperature37.5 to 37.9 degrees
• Feverfrom 38 degrees

How a fever should be assessed depends on the age of your child and the maturity of their immune system. Caution is particularly important with babies, as they are often not yet able to react clearly to infections.

Why babies react differently to fever

After birth, babies have to learn to regulate their own body temperature. At the same time, their immune system is still immature in the first few months. In the first few weeks of life, the mother's immune system protects the baby from viruses, but bacterial infections can quickly become dangerous.

Important: Babies under 12 weeks often cannot develop a high fever. A temperature of 38 degrees or more is already considered a warning sign at this age and always requires medical clarification.

Red flags: When parental intuition counts

Nobody knows your child better than you. If you are worried because your child is not reacting as usual, seems tired or apathetic or is simply "different", it is important that you follow this intuition.

For doctors, the Parents' concern often a valuable indication of the severity of the illness. Specialists refer to this as a "red flag": parents who sense that something is wrong should definitely be taken seriously.

Even if your child's temperature is within the normal range but you are concerned about their behaviour, you should seek medical advice. Your intuition is an important factor in the assessment.

How to measure the temperature correctly

Rectal temperature measurement is the most accurate method for babies and small children. You should use this method especially if you are unsure whether your child has a fever.

Signs that require attention

In addition to the temperature, the general condition of your child is crucial. React immediately if your child:

• Tired, listless or apathetic,
• hardly reacts to being spoken to,
• drinks poorly or refuses food.

The right way to deal with fever in older children

While any increase in temperature must be taken seriously in infants, the same applies to older babies and toddlers:

• Up to 38.5 degreesObserve your child, make sure they drink enough fluids and rest.
• From 39.9 degreesReduce fever, especially if your child is impaired.

When you should lower a baby's temperature

Not every fever needs to be treated immediately. However, there are situations in which you should take action:

• Your child has respiratory diseases such as Pseudocroup or Pneumonia - Here, fever increases the body's need for oxygen.
• In the case of pre-existing conditions such as a heart defect, the fever should be reduced more quickly.

Possible measures include antipyretic medication or Calf wrap. Make sure that the water for the compresses is only about 1 degree cooler than your body temperature to prevent it from dropping too much.

Febrile convulsions and rapid rise in temperature

Febrile convulsions are not caused by high temperatures, but by the rapid rise in body temperature. It is therefore important to reduce fever only gently in order to prevent it from rising again.

When you need medical help for a fever

Parental intuition and clear warning signs determine when professional help is needed:

• Your baby is less than 12 weeks old and has a temperature of 38 degrees or more.
• The fever lasts longer than two days or keeps coming back.
• Your child appears severely impaired, apathetic or refuses to eat.

Caring for your child with a fever

Make sure your child drinks enough, rests and is dressed comfortably. Show patience and attention - your child will feel this loving support.

Remember: your concern is justified and valuable. Nobody knows your child as well as you do, and your intuition is often the best compass when it comes to their health.