Call 112 immediately if: The person has a seizure, cannot be woken, has difficulty breathing, a stiff neck with fever, a rash with fever, or is an infant under 3 months with any fever.
Fever is the body’s natural response to infection. Most fevers are not dangerous. However, very high or rapidly rising fever — especially in children — can become a medical emergency.
| Temperature | Classification | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 37.0°C – 37.9°C | Low-grade | Monitor, rest, fluids |
| 38.0°C – 38.9°C | Mild fever | Home care, paracetamol if uncomfortable |
| 39.0°C – 39.9°C | High fever | Active cooling + medication |
| 40.0°C and above | Very high | Urgent medical attention |
| 41.1°C and above | Hyperpyrexia | Emergency — call 112 |
Managing high fever at home
1
Give fever-reducing medication
Paracetamol: adults 500–1000mg every 4–6 hours. Children: weight-based dosing per package insert. Do not give aspirin to children under 16. Ibuprofen is an alternative for children over 3 months.
2
Encourage fluids constantly
Fever causes rapid fluid loss. Give water, coconut water, ORS frequently. Dehydration worsens fever.
3
Cool damp cloth
Apply to forehead, armpits, and groin. Change frequently. Helps reduce core temperature.
4
Dress lightly
Remove heavy clothing and blankets. Keep room ventilated but not cold.
5
Tepid sponging for children
Lukewarm (not cold) sponge bath helps. Never use cold water or alcohol rubs — both cause shivering which raises temperature.
6
Monitor
Check temperature every 30–60 minutes. Note any new symptoms.
Febrile Seizures in Children
Children between 6 months and 5 years may have seizures when temperature rises rapidly. Usually harmless and lasts under 5 minutes.
During a febrile seizure
1
Protect from injury
Place on a soft surface. Move sharp objects away.
2
Do not restrain
Do not hold down or put anything in the mouth.
3
Place on their side
Once jerking slows, recovery position prevents choking.
4
Time the seizure
Seizures over 5 minutes need emergency care.
5
Call 112
For any first febrile seizure, seizure over 5 minutes, or child who does not regain consciousness quickly.
Emergency Warning Signs
- Any fever in infant under 3 months
- Fever above 40°C not responding to medication
- Fever with stiff neck
- Fever with non-blanching rash
- Fever with difficulty breathing
- Fever with confusion or extreme drowsiness
- Fever lasting more than 3 days in adults or 2 days in children
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for your specific situation. Last reviewed: April 2026. Read our full Medical Disclaimer.