Fever is one of the most common clinical manifestations in pediatrics, and many diseases present with fever as the primary symptom. When a kid has a fever, it is not necessarily a bad thing, it indicates that the body is fighting against an illness and the immune system is functioning normally. In fact, fever plays a critical role in combating bacterial infections.

There are several methods for measuring a kid's body temperature, including rectal, oral, axillary (underarm), ear, or temporal artery measurements. Rectal temperature measurement provides the most accurate data and is suitable for infants who are not yet able to cooperate fully. Oral temperature measurement reflects the core body temperature and provides accurate results. However, it requires the child's cooperation, especially for infants who may not be able to hold the thermometer in their mouths, making it less suitable. Oral temperature measurement is more suitable for older children who can cooperate well.

For kids, traditional mercury thermometers are fragile and unsafe. Broken glass and mercury can both pose a risk of harm to kid. Therefore, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using electronic thermometers for temperature measurement in kid. While ear, axillary, or temporal artery measurements are convenient, they are subject to various influencing factors, resulting in slightly less accuracy compared to rectal temperature measurements.

In clinical practice, a rectal temperature of ≥38°C or an ear temperature of ≥37.5°C is typically defined as a fever. So, how should we deal with fever? Let's take a look at some medical advice together.

The following recommendations apply to previously healthy individuals, i.e., non-immunocompromised, non-cancer chemotherapy patients, and those without recent surgery. Temperatures listed in the  below refer to rectal (rectal) and oral, or core, temperatures, which are most accurate. Other measurements, such as ear temperature (tympanic membrane temperature) or forehead temperature, although it is easy to operate, but have many influencing factors and are sometimes not accurate enough.

Age: 0-3 months

Temperature: Above 38°C (rectal temperature)

Recommendation: Please seek medical attention promptly, even if the child does not exhibit any other signs or symptoms of discomfort.

Age: 3-6 months

Temperature: Below 38.9°C

Recommendation: Provide the child with adequate fluids, ensure proper sleep, and avoid self-medication. If the child appears unusually irritable, drowsy, or uncomfortable, please seek medical attention promptly.

Temperature: Above 38.9°C

Recommendation: Contact a pediatrician for timely medical consultation and examination.

Age: 6-24 months

Temperature: Above 38.9°C

Recommendation: Give the child acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for children over 6 months) following the recommended dosage stated in the instructions. Do not give aspirin to infants or young children. If the fever does not respond to medication or persists for more than one day, please seek medical attention promptly.

In order to effectively handle the unexpected situation of children experiencing a fever, it is highly recommended to keep a Pangao electronic thermometer at home. Having a reliable and accurate thermometer readily available allows parents and caregivers to quickly and conveniently monitor the child's body temperature. Pangao electronic thermometers are designed specifically for children, ensuring their safety and comfort during temperature measurements. With its user-friendly features and precise readings, the Pangao thermometer enables caregivers to assess the severity of the fever and take appropriate actions, such as seeking medical advice or administering appropriate medications. Keeping a Pangao electronic thermometer at home provides peace of mind and empowers parents to respond promptly and effectively to their child's health needs.