Fever among newborns is quite common. This is because their immune system is not as mature as an older baby. Newborns are likely to get many infections until they become three to four months old and develop some strong immunity. Whenever, newborn have temperature little more than 38C (measured rectally) or 37.5C (measured under armpit), there is a possibility that a child is suffering from fever.

We need to be very careful in identifying fever and also while we administer some medicines.

What causes fever in newborn baby?

Fever in newborn babies is caused because of viral or bacterial infections. During fever, the body immune system reacts to viral or bacterial invasion by increase in babys temperature. The high temperature is not favourable for virus and bacteria. Thus, fever is result of resistance created by immune system against viral and bacterial attack.

What are the symptoms of new born baby fever?

Understanding the symptoms will help us provide quick treatment to the baby. As babies cannot communicate, so we should be always vigilant in understanding the symptoms. Commonly following are the symptoms of fever in a newborn:

• Temperature more than 38C (measured rectally) or 37.5C (measured under armpit)
• Crying baby
• Looks pale
• Vomiting
• Refuses to eat
• Loose motion
• Diarrhea
• Breathing problems

There can be other symptoms as well. So, you need to watch the newborn closely whenever you feel your newborn is unwell and his routine behaviour is something different.

How to treat fever in newborn?

As a parent, you need to be active while your baby is having fever. It is advised that you see a pediatrician as soon as possible. You can also call your family doctor for a quick help. You must not try home remedies to treat a newborn less than a month old, it is very necessary that you bring the new born to a doctor. Doctor may prescribe Acetaminophen, but ensure that you learn the exact dosage to be given to your baby.

During fever, your newborn may get dehydrated because of diarrhea . You need to continue breastfeeding and also giving some oral rehydration solution (ORS) to keep the baby hydrated.

Things might turn worse, if your child get infections associated with the fever. So, it is very important that you bring your baby to a doctor as soon as possible. If baby is diagnosed with any infections, then doctor may recommend some antibiotic medicines.

How often is your newborn baby having fever ? How have you dealt with new-born in fever? Do let us know your experience.