Fever Management at Home: When to Seek Medical Care

Self-Care Measures

• Rest to support immune response.
• Hydration: Water, electrolyte solutions, broth; avoid alcohol/caffeine.
• Cooling: Lukewarm sponge bath, light clothing, fan; avoid ice baths.
• Antipyretics: Acetaminophen 10–15 mg/kg q4–6h or ibuprofen 5–10 mg/kg q6–8h (not both simultaneously unless directed).
• Light nutrition: Soups, fruits, toast as tolerated.

Red Flags – Seek Care Immediately

• Temp ≥40°C (104°F) or >38°C (100.4°F) in infant <3 months
• Fever >3 days (adult) or >24h (child <2 yrs)
• Stiff neck, photophobia, confusion, seizure
• Rash non-blanching, dyspnea, chest pain
• Immunocompromised, recent travel, chemo

Fever is a beneficial response; treat for comfort, not to normalize temperature.