Fever at home: what helps and when to see a doctor

Fever is the body's normal response to an infection. Most fevers from a cold or a viral illness settle in two to three days.

What helps

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids: water, ORS, soup and fruit juice.
• Paracetamol can ease the fever and aches. Take only the dose written on the label for your age and weight, and never more than the label allows in a day.
• Wear light clothes and sponge the body with lukewarm (not cold) water.
• Write down the temperature morning and evening; it helps your doctor.

See a doctor if

• The fever lasts more than three days, or keeps coming back.
• There is a stiff neck, severe headache, confusion, a fit, difficulty breathing, bleeding, black stools, severe belly pain, repeated vomiting or very little urine. These need care now: go to the nearest hospital.

During dengue season, avoid aspirin and ibuprofen-type painkillers unless a doctor advises them.

This article is general information and not a substitute for an in-person examination. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.