Q: My child has a high fever peaking at 40.3°C and severe chills. How can I manage the chills?

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

My child has been experiencing a high fever and severe chills. It started on Wednesday morning at 38.5°C and reached up to 39°C. We went to the emergency room, where a flu test came back negative, but the inflammation markers were high. There were no other symptoms, so we were discharged after a fever-reducing injection.

On Thursday, the fever peaked at 40.3°C and has since hovered around 38°C. Fever-reducing medications only seem to work for about 3 hours, so I am currently cross-dosing them.

Right now, the temperature is 38.8°C. The chills are so severe that I have covered my child with a blanket and cannot perform a tepid water massage. Is there any way to properly handle these chills?

Answer:

You must be really worried about the high fever and chills. I completely understand how shocked you must have been, especially with the temperature reaching 40.3°C.

【How to Manage Chills】

Chills are a natural response that occurs during the process of a rising body temperature:

1. Covering with a blanket → Correct! Please keep them warm while they are experiencing chills.

2. When chills stop → Change them into light clothing.

3. Tepid water massage → This is not recommended according to the latest medical guidelines. It can actually worsen the shivering.

4. Fever reducers (Antipyretics) → Continue cross-dosing with the exact recommended dosages.

【Signs You Need a Re-examination】

→ High fever persisting for 4 days + high inflammation markers = Re-evaluation is necessary.

→ I strongly recommend revisiting the pediatrician today to check for:

• Possibility of a bacterial infection

• Need for additional tests (urine test, chest X-ray, etc.)

• Whether antibiotics are necessary

⚠️ Visit the ER immediately if you notice:

• Decreased consciousness or signs of dehydration

• Difficulty breathing or the appearance of a rash

• No urination for more than 6 hours

Chills themselves are not dangerous, but a high fever lasting into the 4th day definitely requires further evaluation. Hang in there!

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us