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Africa Digital Clinic

Disease prevention, early detection and effective management.

1.2: Fever

Table of Contents

Fever is also known as pyrexia and is usually a symptom of an infection. It is characterized by an elevation of body temperature above the normal range of 36.5–37.5 C

 

Diagnostic Criteria:

  • Depression
  • Lethargy
  • Anorexia
  • Sleepiness
  • Hyperalgesia
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Feeling cold
  • Increased muscle tone
  • Shivering

 

Note: Fever alone is not a diagnosis

Non-Pharmacological Treatment

  • Advise patient for bed rest
  • Ask patient to take plenty of fluids

 

Note: In children, temperature >400C need urgent lowering. However, lukewarm sponging and evaporative cooling are not recommended. Fevers caused by virus are usually self-limiting but all other fevers need treatments

 

 

Pharmacological Treatment Give antipyretic medicines:

A: Paracetamol (PO)

Adult: 1g 6 hourly when required

Children: 15mg/kg 6 hourly when required

OR

A: Paracetamol suppository, rectally 125mg–250mg, 6hourly

 

CAUTION

Aspirin is not recommended in children and young adult, under 16 years due to risk of Reye’s syndrome6

 

Referral:

Refer the patient to the next facility with adequate expertise and facilities.

  • All fevers where no diagnosis is established
  • If no improvement of fever after the use of antibiotics
  • Fever that recurs
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