Sponsored by Ipren

Fever in young children is something most parents find difficult. It can be most challenging when your child has a fever for the first time, if your baby is under 1 year old and has a fever, or if they have a persistent fever that won't go away. In this article, we've put together some tips and advice on how to deal with the fever when it comes.

Why children get fever

Fever is the body's natural defense to process viruses and bacteria, and children actually get fevers more easily than adults. However, the “normal” body temperature varies from person to person, but is usually somewhere between 36 and 37.8 degrees. If a child's temperature is above 38 degrees, it is usually considered a fever.

How to care for a child with a fever

Children with fever can have different general conditions. Some behave just like normal, others are noticeably affected by the virus or bacteria in their body. Some things to consider if a young child has a fever are:

• Make sure your child drinks more fluids than usual. Give what the child likes to drink.
• Encourage them to eat when/if they are feeling more alert
• Adjust clothing, room temperature and duvet/blanket to keep it cooler if your child is very hot or uncomfortable
• Rest, cuddle and be there as a parent
• Give antipyretics if needed

When are antipyretics needed?

Fever is a natural part of the body's defense against infection, and if your child is otherwise well, you do not need to treat the fever. However, if your child is cranky, has trouble settling down, or doesn't want to eat or drink, antipyretics can help.

Antipyretics for children are available in liquid and suppository forms, and are adapted to the child's age and needs. Pharmacies can always help you find the right medicine for your child. They can also give you advice if you have questions about medicines or dosage.

Ipren® is an over-the-counter medicine that can relieve both fever and temporary pain. Ipren® for children is available as:

• Ipren® Oral Suspension 20 mg/ml- an orange-flavored liquid suspension, sugar-free, for children from 3 months weighing at least 5 kg.

• Ipren® Suppositories 60 mg - rectal suppositories for children from 6 months (over 7 kg).

Remember:

• If you suspect dehydration, consult a doctor before use.
• Ipren® should not be used if the child has chickenpox.
• For children between 3-6 months: a maximum of 24 hours of treatment without contact with a doctor.
• For children from 6 months: maximum 3 days of treatment without contact with a doctor.
• If the child is younger than 6 months - always consult a healthcare professional, for example via 1177 or your child health center nurse, before giving medicines.

When should I seek medical help?

A fever in itself is not harmful to the child, it is the cause of the fever that the child may need treatment for. If your child has a fever for more than four days, ask for advice by contacting a health center, an emergency clinic or call 1177.

You should seek medical attention immediately if your child is younger than 3 months and has a fever, and if your child is younger than 6 months and has a fever but no cold symptoms.

Seek medical attention immediately if your child has a temperature of 41.0 degrees or more, seems very sick, is in a lot of pain or is crying inconsolably. Seek medical attention immediately if the child does not want to drink at all or shows signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth or urinating less than usual.

Read more on 1177.se about when you should seek medical care for your child in case of fever. You can always contact 1177 for medical advice if you are unsure. You can also turn to your BVC nurse for help.

Reviewed together with Matilda Ördell, Pediatric Nurse

Ipren (ibuprofen) oral suspension from 3 months (5 kg), max 24 h treatment without doctor contact at 3-6 months, other age max 3 days. Suppositories from 6 months (7 kg) max 3 days treatment. Drugs for temporary pain and fever. If you think your child may be dehydrated, consult a doctor before use. Ipren should not be used for chickenpox. The products should not be used during pregnancy or if you are trying to get pregnant. Always read the package leaflet carefully, especially in case of hypersensitivity or other illness. McNeil Sweden AB, Box 4007, 169 04 Solna, 2025. SE- IPR-2025-196052