Tips for African Parents on Caring for a Child with Fever at Home Safely 

By Promise Oladejo, Freelance Health Writer and DLHA Volunteer. Medically reviewed by: T. Oyetunji, MBBS, FWACP

A father with  thermometer on hand checking for fever in a sick child lying on a bed. Image credit: Freepik.

Highlights

• Fever is a natural response to infections, and most cases can be safely managed at home.

• Use a digital thermometer for accurate temperature measurement and avoid mercury thermometers for safety. 

• Home remedies including dressing lightly, lukewarm sponge baths, and hydration can help reduce fever. 

• Use medications wisely – Paracetamol and ibuprofen can help but avoid aspirin in children. 

• Seek medical attention if fever lasts over 36 hours, rises above 40°C (104°F), or is accompanied by severe symptoms.

Introduction

Fever is a common symptom in children and is usually the body's way of fighting infections. While it can be alarming for parents, most fevers are not dangerous and can be managed at home. However, knowing how to care for a child with fever at home and when to seek medical help is essential. This guide provides African parents with practical, medically accurate tips to help their child recover from fever safely at home.

How to Take Your Child’s Temperature Correctly

A digital thermometer

Before you think of treating a fever, it is important to confirm that your child actually has one.

A fever is defined as a body temperature of 37.5°C (99.5°F) or higher (1). Here’s how to measure it correctly:

• Digital Thermometer (Best Option): While it is true that axillary temperatures are commonly used because they are easier and more comfortable for children, rectal readings are most accurate. Oral readings are more accurate for older children. (2)

• Ear Thermometer: Quick but not always accurate, especially for babies under 6 months. (3)

• Forehead (Temporal) Thermometer: Convenient but can be affected by sweat and room temperature. (4) 

• Mercury Thermometers (Avoid): These are outdated and can be dangerous if broken. (5)

Home Remedies for Managing Fever

If your child has a mild fever but is eating and playing normally, home care may be enough. Here are safe ways to bring down a fever naturally (6): 

• Dress Lightly: Avoid overdressing your child, as excess clothing can trap heat.

• Lukewarm Sponge Bath: Gently wipe your child with a lukewarm (not cold) cloth to help lower body temperature. 

• Keep the Room Cool: Ensure proper ventilation and use a fan if necessary. 

• Fluids and Rest: Fever can cause dehydration, so encourage water, breast milk, or diluted fruit juices.

Medications for Children's Fever: When and How to Use Them

While most fevers do not require medication, fever-reducing medicines can be used if your child is uncomfortable: (7) 

• Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Safe for children over 2 months old. Follow dosage instructions based on weight. 

• Ibuprofen: Can be given to children over 6 months but should be avoided if the child is dehydrated. 

• Aspirin: Do not use aspirin. It can cause a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome in children. 

• Avoid Overmedication: Do not give fever medicine more often than recommended, as overdosing can harm the liver or kidneys.

Ensuring Proper Hydration and Nutrition

Fever causes the body to lose fluids faster. To prevent dehydration: 

• Give plenty of fluids: Water, diluted juices, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) help keep your child hydrated. (5)

• Breastfeeding infants: Continue breastfeeding as usual, and offer more frequent feeds to keep them hydrated. (3)

• Light, nutritious meals: Encourage your child to eat small, light meals such as porridge, soup and fruits. Avoid greasy or heavy foods, and offer meals even if their appetite is low.

Rest and Comfort Measures

Adequate rest helps a child recover faster.

• Encourage sleep: The body heals best during rest. (2)

• Keep activities light: Avoid excessive physical activity while your child has a fever.

• Provide comfort: Let your child rest in a quiet, cool space with minimal distractions. (8)

When to See a Doctor

Parents and caregivers should seek immediate medical attention if a child with fever exhibits any of the following warning signs: (9) 

• Temperature exceeding 40°C (104°F)

• Fever persisting for more than three days

• Signs of hyperthermia - very high fever (e.g., Muscle stiffness, Mental changes)

• Symptoms suggesting serious underlying issues (e.g., Severe pain, Breathing problems)

Common Mistakes African Parents Make When Caring for a Child with Fever at Home

Avoid these common errors when managing your child’s fever at home:

• Using Cold Water or Ice Baths: This can cause shivering, which raises body temperature. (6)

• Giving Too Many Medications: Stick to the recommended dosage and timing. (2)

• Using Unproven Remedies: The use of unproven remedies like local herbs, traditional concoction like cow’s urine and charcoal-based powders are not encouraged and indeed may be harmful.

• Overdressing the Child: Light clothing helps the body release heat effectively. (6)

• Delaying To Seek Professional Help: Know when a fever is serious and seek professional help promptly (5).

Conclusion

Fever is a natural defense mechanism, and most cases can be managed at home with proper care. By following these tips, parents can ensure their child remains comfortable and safe. However, it is crucial to recognize warning signs and seek professional help when needed. With the right knowledge, African parents can confidently handle fever episodes and support their child's recovery.

References:

1. Kiemde F, Tahita MC, Lompo P, Rouamba T, Some AM, Tinto H, Mens PF, Schallig HD, van Hensbroek MB. Treatable causes of fever among children under five years in a seasonal malaria transmission area in Burkina Faso. Infectious diseases of poverty. 2018 Jun 1;7(03):35-44. Accessed from here.

2. Adesegun OA, Adeyemi OO, Ehioghae O, Rabor DF, Binuyo TO, Alafin BA, Nnagha OB, Idowu AO, Osonuga A. Current trends in the epidemiology and management of enteric fever in Africa: a literature review. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine. 2020 May 1;13(5):204-13. Accessed from here.

3. Oshikoya KA, Senbanjo IO. Fever in children: Mothers' perceptions and their home management. [Internet]. Tehran University of Medical Sciences Press. 2009 January 21. [Cited March 26, 2025. Available from here.

4. Nooh F, Chernet A, Reither K, Okuma J, Brattig NW, Utzinger J, Probst-Hensch N, Paris DH, Dreyfus A. Prevalence of fever of unidentified aetiology in East African adolescents and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Infectious Diseases of Poverty. 2023 May 25;12(1):55. Accessed from here.

5. Adeboye A, Yusuf RA, Ige OK. Fever: a literature review of perceptions, perspectives and practices. J Tradit Med Clin Naturop. 2017;6:249. Accessed from here.

6. D'acremont V, Kilowoko M, Kyungu E, Philipina S, Sangu W, Kahama-Maro J, Lengeler C, Cherpillod P, Kaiser L, Genton B. Beyond malaria—causes of fever in outpatient Tanzanian children. New England Journal of Medicine. 2014 Feb 27;370(9):809-17. Accessed from here.

7. Green R, Webb D, Jeena PM, Wells M, Butt N, Hangoma JM, Moodley RS, Maimin J, Wibbelink M, Mustafa F. Management of acute fever in children: Consensus recommendations for community and primary healthcare providers in sub-Saharan Africa. African Journal of Emergency Medicine. 2021 Jun 1;11(2):283-96. Accessed from here.

8. Fernandes JF, Held J, Dorn M, Lalremruata A, Schaumburg F, Alabi A, Agbanrin MD, Kokou C, Ben Adande A, Esen M, Eibach D. Causes of fever in Gabonese children: a cross-sectional hospital-based study. Scientific reports. 2020 Feb 7;10(1):2080. Accessed from here.

9. Laupland KB. Fever in the critically ill medical patient. Critical care medicine. 2009 Jul 1;37(7):S273-8. Accessed from here.

Related:

• 10 Common Causes of Fever in Children in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Fever in children: What African parents need to know
• Chest Infection in African Children
• Common Cold in Babies: What African Parents Should Know
• Teething in Babies: What African Parents Should Know
• African Parents, Can You Tell If Your Baby Has Common Cold or Chest Infection?

Published: May 29, 2025

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