High temperature in children, pediatrician: Showers don’t help! Here’s what you should do

During the season of viral infections and flu, many parents face rising temperatures in young children.

According to pediatrician Zerina Sheme, fever is a protective response of the body to infections and should not immediately be seen as alarming. However, it must be monitored carefully.

In an interview on the program “Dita jonë” on A2 CNN, she explained that compresses, airing the room, and light clothing help reduce temperature, while showers are not recommended.

“Compresses can be applied mainly to the hands, feet, and forehead. Partial bathing can be done, but it depends on the child’s reaction. In general, giving fluids and using compresses help calm the temperature to some extent. Clothing is also important — we should remove a layer of clothing, or if the child is covered with two blankets, remove one,” she explained.

“Where the air conditioner is on all day, the air becomes dry. Take the child to a cooler, well-ventilated environment. Not where there are cooking vapors or cigarette smoke, but in a well-aired room. During high fever, around 39°C, there can be unpleasant episodes.

This is individual. Some children react strongly to temperature changes and may develop shivering. Their hands and feet get cold. So in my opinion, that is not the best way to reduce fever, but rather partial baths and partial compresses. Giving fluids is certainly the first and most important step.”

The pediatrician added that parents should be alert to signs such as lethargy, lack of urination for several hours, or the appearance of convulsions, in which cases immediate medical intervention is required. Care and consultation with the family doctor remain the safest steps for a child’s health.

Antibiotics should not be used in cases of viral infections, as these are usually managed with antipyretics such as paracetamol and adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Food should be light, mainly vegetable soups, while protein-rich foods are advised to be limited during high fever.

“KORÇA BOOM”