Fever and Viral Infections in Children: Insights by Dr. Prashant Khandgave

Fever and viral infections are among the most common reasons parents seek medical care for their children. While often manageable, these conditions can be concerning, especially when accompanied by high temperatures or persistent symptoms. Dr. Prashant Khandgave, Senior Pediatrician at Pulse Multispeciality Hospital near Navale Bridge, Pune, shares valuable insights into understanding fever and viral infections in children and how to manage them effectively.

What is Fever?

Fever is the body’s natural response to an infection. It occurs when the body raises its temperature to fight off viruses or bacteria.

In children, a fever is generally defined as a body temperature of:

100.4°F (38°C) or higher when measured rectally
99.5°F (37.5°C) or higher when measured orally
99°F (37.2°C) or higher when measured under the arm

Common Causes of Fever in Children

Fever can be caused by various factors, but in most cases, it is linked to:

Viral Infections: Conditions like the common cold, flu, or viral gastroenteritis are frequent culprits.
Bacterial Infections: Although less common than viral infections, bacterial conditions like strep throat or urinary tract infections can also trigger fever.
Teething or Vaccinations: Mild fever is sometimes seen during teething or after routine vaccinations.

Symptoms of Viral Infections

In addition to fever, viral infections in children may present with:

Runny or Stuffy Nose
Cough and Sore Throat
Body Aches
Fatigue
Nausea or Diarrhea

Most viral infections resolve on their own within 5–7 days, but monitoring and supportive care are essential.

When to Worry About a Fever

While most fevers are not harmful, there are situations when you should seek medical attention for your child:

Infants Under 3 Months: Any fever above 100.4°F requires immediate medical evaluation.
High Fever: Fevers exceeding 104°F or persisting for more than three days should be assessed by a doctor.
Severe Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, severe headache, or lethargy are red flags.
Febrile Seizures: Some children may experience seizures due to a rapid rise in temperature. This requires urgent medical care.

Managing Fever and Viral Infections

Dr. Prashant Khandgave recommends the following steps to manage fever and ease symptoms at home:

Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Rest: Encourage your child to rest, as their body needs energy to fight the infection.
Fever Medications: Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to reduce fever, but always follow the dosage recommended by your pediatrician.
Comfort Measures: Dress your child in lightweight clothing and use lukewarm sponge baths to help lower body temperature.
Nutritional Support: Offer light, nutritious meals and avoid forcing food if your child has a reduced appetite.

Preventing Viral Infections

Preventing viral infections in children involves fostering good hygiene and boosting their immunity:

Hand Hygiene: Teach children to wash their hands frequently with soap and water.
Vaccination: Ensure your child is up-to-date on immunizations.
Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins helps strengthen the immune system.
Avoiding Sick Contacts: Minimize exposure to people who are ill, especially during peak viral seasons.

When to See a Pediatrician

If your child’s fever persists, worsens, or is accompanied by unusual symptoms, consulting a pediatrician is essential. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.

Fever and viral infections are part of growing up, but with proper care and timely medical attention, they can be effectively managed. Dr. Prashant Khandgave and his team at Pulse Multispeciality Hospital near Navale Bridge, Pune, are here to provide expert guidance and care for your child’s health concerns.

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