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Fevers worry parents; they scare them sometimes. I understand why. After all, fevers can be a sign of something serious — and at the beginning of one, it’s hard to know whether it’s going to turn out to be something serious.

Most of the time, it isn’t serious. Fevers are very common. They are part of how the body fights infection. The average child will get several viral infections a year — which means several fevers. The vast majority of fevers are nothing to worry about, and pass in a day or two.

Sometimes, though, parents should worry. Here are some circumstances when you should be worried about a fever and seek medical attention immediately:

• If your child is less than 3 months old. While most fevers in newborns turn out just fine, their defenses are still getting up and going and they aren’t very good at telling us what hurts.
• If the fever is accompanied by a dark rash (small or larger spots, flat or raised) that looks almost like a bruise and doesn’t get paler when you press on it.  This can be a sign of a serious infection.
• If your child is extremely sleepy or extremely irritable. This always worries doctors. Kids are often sleepy and cranky when they get sick. What I’m talking about here is when that sleepiness and crankiness get severe. If you aren’t sure whether your child’s symptoms are severe, call and talk to your doctor (or the person on call).
• If your child has severe pain, or difficulty moving any part of the body (like the neck).
• If your child has trouble breathing, or is breathing more quickly or forcefully than usual. It could be a sign of a serious lung infection.
• If your child has a condition, or is taking a medication, that makes it harder for them to fight infection. It’s important to check in early with your doctor.

It’s also a good idea to call your doctor if:

• Your child has a fever greater than 102° F (or 39° C). It’s probably nothing serious, but it’s worth checking in with a doctor or nurse to go through things and see if a visit to the office or emergency room makes sense.
• Your child has a rash with the fever (not like the one described above, for that, go right to the emergency room). It’s most likely nothing to be worried about, but some viruses worry us more than others (like measles, or chicken pox) and some bacterial infections that need antibiotics (like strep throat, or cellulitis) can cause rashes.
• The fever has lasted more than two to three days. Again, probably nothing to worry about, but worth checking in to be sure.
• Your child is drinking much less than usual, especially if they are also urinating much less than usual. They may be dehydrated.
• There is something else that doesn’t seem right to you. Over the years, I’ve learned to trust a parent’s instincts. You know your child better than anyone. Call if you are worried.

If none of this applies, chances are your child has a minor illness and will be just fine. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be helpful for making your child more comfortable, although if your child is acting fine and drinking (eating is optional, it’s the drinking that’s key), it might be best to let the fever be and let the body do its job. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest — and TLC.

About the Author

Claire McCarthy, MD,
Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing

Claire McCarthy, MD, is a primary care pediatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital, and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In addition to being a senior faculty editor for Harvard Health Publishing, Dr. McCarthy …
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White fever in a child – causes, symptoms, treatment

Contents

• 1 White fever in children: symptoms, treatment and prevention
  • 1.1 Symptoms of white fever in a child
  • 1.2 White fever in a child: what is it?
    • 1.2.1 What is white fever?
    • 1.2.2 Why does white fever occur?
    • 1.2.3 How does white fever develop?
  • 1.3 Who is at risk for white fever in children
  • 1.4 How to diagnose white fever in a child
  • 1.5 Treatment of white fever in a child: what drugs will help
    • 1.5.1 Antibiotics
    • 1.5.2 Antipyretics
    • 1.5.3 Antivirals 9000 8
  • 1.6 Recovery period after white fever in the child: what you need to know
    • 1. 6.1 Child nutrition during the recovery period
    • 1.6.2 Sleep and rest during the recovery period
    • 1.6.3 Medicines and prevention of white fever in the child
  • 1.7 Complications of white fever in a child
  • 1.8 Prevention of white fever in children: advice from doctors
  • 1.9 What to do if a child has signs of white fever
  • 1.10 Comparing white fever with other types of fever in children 9000 8
  • 1.11 How prevent white fever in a child
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What is white fever in a child?
      • 1.13.0.2 How is white fever transmitted?
      • 1.13.0.3 How is white fever diagnosed in a child?
      • 1.13.0.4 How is white fever treated in a child?
      • 1.13.0.5 How can white fever be prevented?
      • 1.13.0.6 How quickly does white fever resolve in a child?

Information on the symptoms, causes and treatment of white fever in children. Find out how to prevent the development of the disease and how to properly care for your child during illness.

White fever is a disease caused by a virus transmitted by mosquito bites. Although rare in developed countries, it is a serious health hazard in parts of Africa.

When a child is infected with white fever, the brain becomes inflamed and can be fatal if not detected and treated promptly. Symptoms of white fever in a child can be very similar to other diseases, so it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of illness.

This resource is about how to know the symptoms of white fever in a child, what causes it, and what treatment and prevention methods you can apply to keep your child healthy.

Symptoms of white fever in a child

High body temperature is one of the most common symptoms of white fever in a child. It is possible to increase the temperature up to 40 degrees Celsius. The temperature is difficult to bring down with conventional antipyretic drugs. It is important to see a doctor immediately if you have a high fever.

A rash-like rash is another major symptom of white fever in a child. It can appear on the entire body of the child, including the mucous membranes. The rash can be pronounced, sometimes taking on a hemorrhagic character.

Headache and vomiting are other symptoms that occur in children suffering from this condition. They usually appear in the early stages of the disease. Headache is specific to this form of fever and is difficult to relieve by conventional means. Vomiting is associated with the presence of toxins in the baby’s blood.

• Abdominal swelling is another symptom of white fever.
• Bleeding – internal and external bleeding is characteristic of this form of fever. They can present with bleeding from the nose, eyes, mouth, and urinary tract. Bleeding can lead to severe anemia.

Deterioration of the patient’s condition – if the child does not receive timely treatment, then his condition may deteriorate significantly. The sudden onset of acute abdominal pain, convulsions and impaired consciousness should not be ignored.

White fever in a child: what is it?

What is white fever?

White fever is a dangerous viral disease transmitted by the bites of infected mosquitoes. It can lead to serious disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system, damage to internal organs, and in some cases, death. White fever is the leading cause of death in parts of Africa and South America.

Why does white fever occur?

White fever is caused by a virus transmitted by blood-sucking insects. Infected mosquitoes transmit the virus to humans by sucking blood. The virus enters the bloodstream and begins to multiply in various organs. Symptoms of white fever may begin insidiously, but over time they worsen and the patient needs immediate medical attention.

What is the mechanism of development of white fever?

White fever virus causes inflammation in various organs. It penetrates the tissues and affects them, which causes hypoxia – a lack of oxygen. As a result, various symptoms occur, such as high body temperature, headache, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and loss of appetite. If left untreated, white fever can lead to kidney failure, bleeding, fatigue, and death.

Who is at risk for white fever in children

White fever is a dangerous viral disease that can lead to serious consequences in children and adults. However, not all children are at risk of contracting this disease, there are certain categories that are most susceptible to infection.

Children who have not been vaccinated against white fever are also at risk. The white fever vaccine is recommended for anyone planning to visit areas where the disease is common.

1. Children under 9 months of age are also at risk of contracting white fever
2. Children who have immune system disorders such as diabetes or HIV infection are also more susceptible to this virus
3. Children who have liver problems may also more likely to get white fever

In any case, if your child has signs of white fever such as fever, headache and muscle weakness, see a doctor right away. Rapid treatment at an early stage of the disease can prevent the development of dangerous complications.

How to diagnose white fever in a child

White fever is a dangerous viral disease that can lead to serious consequences and even death if not diagnosed in a timely manner.

White fever is caused by a virus transmitted by mosquito bites. Symptoms may include high fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and even bleeding.

How to diagnose white fever in a child:

• Check for symptoms of illness such as fever, headache, nausea or vomiting.
• Look for any bleeding or skin rash.
• Do laboratory blood tests to check for the presence of the virus in the body.

If you suspect that your child may be infected with white fever, contact your doctor immediately. Faster diagnosis and treatment can save your child’s life.

Treatment of white fever in a child: what drugs will help

Antibiotics

One of the main groups of drugs used in the treatment of white fever are antibiotics. They are designed to fight the bacteria that cause disease. Depending on the severity of white fever, your doctor may prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic or a specific antimicrobial agent. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations on the dosage and duration of taking antibiotics, as improper use can lead to side effects or even resistance of microorganisms to the drug.

Antipyretics

High body temperature in a child with white fever may be accompanied by a severe headache, as well as general malaise and weakness. In this case, fever-lowering medications can help reduce symptoms and improve the child’s condition. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the most popular among them.

Antivirals

If white fever is caused by viruses, antivirals may be used. They allow you to fight viruses and speed up the healing process. The doctor may prescribe such drugs if the symptoms of the disease do not go away for a long time and the body does not respond to antibiotics. Treatment with antiviral drugs may be an additional option in the complex therapy of white fever.

• The use of any drugs must be agreed with the pediatrician.
• It is not recommended to take antibiotics for more than three days without consulting a doctor.
• In case of illness, it is necessary to provide the child with peace and a comfortable environment. He must receive enough fluid and nutrients.

Recovering from white fever in a child: what you need to know

Feeding a child during the recovery period

During the recovery period after white fever, special attention should be paid to the child’s nutrition. He should eat a varied and wholesome food that will help the body recover and support immunity. It is recommended to increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, protein foods and fluids.

• Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, which helps the body recover from illness
• Protein food contains amino acids necessary for tissue repair and regeneration
• Fluid helps to remove waste and toxins from the body, which also speeds up the recovery process

Sleep and rest during the recovery period

Sleep and rest is one of the most important aspects of recovery from white fever. The child should sleep and rest normally so that the body can focus on fighting the disease and restoring strength. It is recommended not to load the child with physical exercises or active games during the recovery period.

Medications and prevention of white fever in a child

After white fever, the doctor may prescribe medicines to help the child recover faster. It is important to strictly follow the instructions of the doctor and not to exceed the dose of medication. White fever prophylaxis is also recommended to reduce the chance of reinfection. This may include vaccinations, use of mosquito nets and repellents.

Complications of white fever in a child

Hemorrhagic syndrome is one of the most serious complications of white fever. The regulation mechanism is disrupted in the ability of blood to clot, so the patient’s muscles begin to gently collapse, bleed, and brown spots form on the skin and mucous membranes. If time syndrome is diagnosed and treated early, the chances of recovery are higher.

Brain weakness – the degree of having units ready to use the property called whitish intoxication when the body temperature rises to 40 ° C for an indefinite period of time. This fact can also create problems with behavior, loss of imagination and other activities that are not typical of a healthy child.

Liver failure is another possible complication of white fever. In the course of the disease, the liver becomes very sick and may fail. Dependent doses may be at levels of increased bile, rapid turbidity, hepatitis, and tenderness on the right side of the body. Treatment should begin as soon as possible to reduce the chance of developing this complication.

• Pneumonia is an infectious disease that affects the lungs. Its development causes a new weakening of the child’s immunity. The patient begins to suffer from cough, weakness and fever.
• Obstetrical complications – women who have had white fever during pregnancy are subjected to callous controls to check whether the child’s birth acceptances, inherent in the diseases, have been impaired and whether the movement is impaired. Additional care and monitoring is required for the health of the newborn if the father is also infected.

Preventing white fever in children: doctor’s advice

Give your child high quality food. A healthy diet is essential to maintain a child’s immune system and avoid vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Include fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and healthy fats in your diet.

Help your child maintain personal hygiene. Regular washing of hands and teeth, brushing the tongue and ears all help to avoid diseases such as white fever. Teach your child proper nose inflation techniques and the use of handkerchiefs.

Vaccinate children against relevant diseases. Vaccinations not only help prevent diseases, but also help reduce the risk of complications if infected. Check with your child’s pediatrician to find out what vaccinations they need.

Avoid child contact with infected people. White fever is transmitted through coughing, sneezing and direct contact with a person infected with the disease. If the child has contact with the patient, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor and take the child for a special examination.

Stay up to date with new advice and knowledge about white fever and its treatment. Communicate with your pediatrician, follow the news on the topic. The more you know about this disease, the more likely you are to avoid it.

What to do if a child has signs of white fever

White fever is a dangerous acute infectious disease that occurs with high fever, severe headaches, nausea and vomiting. If a child has these symptoms, you should immediately contact an infectious disease specialist or a hospital that specializes in the treatment of white fever.

Parents need to provide their child with a long and quality sleep, control his nutrition, give him enough water and avoid spicy, fatty, smoked and sweet foods, which can aggravate the patient’s condition.

White fever is treated with antibiotics, fever reducers, and antivirals prescribed by a doctor, depending on the severity of the child’s condition. It is also important to monitor hygiene and, if necessary, disinfect.

In addition to drug therapy, it is necessary to provide psychological support to the child. It is necessary to explain to him that the disease is temporary and that he will definitely recover.

Untimely access to a doctor can lead to serious complications and even death. Therefore, if your child has symptoms of white fever, do not postpone the visit to the doctor until later. Act immediately to start treatment at the very beginning of the disease.

Comparison of white fever with other types of fever in children

White fever is an acute viral infection transmitted by mosquito bites. It leads to flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches and nausea. This type of fever is associated with serious complications such as bleeding and acute pancreatitis.

Another type of fever in children , often caused by bacteria, is known as typhoid fever. This infection leads to high fever, headache, severe weakness and nausea. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications such as peritonitis and sepsis.

Malaria is another type of fever caused by the bites of parasitic mosquitoes. It leads to fever, severe headaches, loss of appetite and nausea. If left untreated, it can lead to seizures and coma.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes high fever, migraines, eye inflammation and severe muscle pain. This type of fever can lead to complications such as bleeding and seizures.

While each type of fever has its own characteristic symptoms, all of them can be dangerous and require immediate treatment. If you or your child has a fever and other symptoms, don’t wait for them to go away on their own. See your doctor for fast and effective treatment.

How to prevent white fever in a child

White fever is a dangerous disease caused by a virus transmitted by mosquitoes. To prevent the disease, a number of measures must be taken:

• Inoculation . There is a white fever vaccine that is recommended for children at 1 year of age. It provides effective protection for 10 years.
• Avoid places where the disease is actively spreading . If you live in or plan to travel to areas where white fever is common, you should take precautions to avoid forests and swamps.
• Mosquito control . It is necessary to use special insect repellents to protect against mosquito bites. It is also recommended to install mosquito nets on windows and doors, especially in the evening and at night.
• Follow personal hygiene rules . Ventilate the room regularly, use mosquito repellent inside the house. After walking and active pastime on the street, it is recommended to take a shower and change clothes.

Following these steps will help prevent your child from getting white fever.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is white fever in a child?

White fever is an infectious disease transmitted by mosquitoes and causes a range of symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea and vomiting. Children with white fever may also have rashes and bleeding.

How is white fever transmitted?

White fever is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected with the white fever virus when they drink blood from an infected person or animal. The disease is not transmitted from person to person.

How is white fever diagnosed in a child?

White fever is diagnosed by testing the blood for antibodies to the white fever virus. Other tests may also be required, such as urinalysis and headache spectral analysis.

How is white fever treated in a child?

Treatment of white fever consists of supportive care such as fluid therapy and temperature control. Some patients may require hospitalization and treatment in a hospital. There are currently no specific drugs for the treatment of white fever. The use of acetaminophen and other analgesics must be coordinated with the doctor.

How can white fever be prevented?

Mosquito repellent is the main way to prevent white fever. This includes using repellents, wearing body coverings (especially in the evening and at night) and using mosquito nets on windows and doors. Vaccination is also an effective way to prevent white fever.

How quickly does white fever resolve in a child?

The duration of white fever can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the illness. It is recommended to consult a doctor when symptoms of white fever appear in order to receive timely diagnosis and treatment.

NOTE FOR PARENTS

Child has fever. What to do?

1 If your child’s temperature suddenly rises (he was still healthy an hour ago), do not panic. As a rule, this is an acute respiratory disease, because it is the acute respiratory infections that make up about 90% childhood infections.

2. If the day before the child already had symptoms of infection (malaise, runny nose, sore throat, cough, voice change, moderate pain in the abdomen), then this is most likely a manifestation of the child’s body’s protective reaction to this infection .

3. If the child tolerates elevated body temperature well up to 39-39.60, is older than 6 months, and does not have serious concomitant diseases, then do not rush to reduce it. Make sure your child has enough to drink for adequate perspiration (drinking temperature should be around body temperature for rapid absorption). The air in the room should be cool (18-200) to cool the upper respiratory tract, as well as the entire body of the child. Under no circumstances should babies be wrapped.

4. If a child does not tolerate a rise in body temperature or has a severe concomitant pathology, we begin to reduce the temperature, or rather, we strive to improve the child’s well-being. For this, a decrease in temperature to the norm is not required (remember the protective role of elevated temperature). We use drugs ibuprofen and paracetamol (trade names may be different) approved for children in the Russian Federation in the form of syrups, drops, suppositories and tablets. The main thing is not to exceed the recommended daily dose of the drug. To improve well-being, the minimum dose of the drug indicated in the instructions may be sufficient. Typically, drug-resistant fevers are associated with the child’s inability to sweat (drinks little or the child has a “pale” type of fever).

What should not be done when the temperature is high?

• Do not wrap up the child

• If he is pale and his extremities are cool (“pale” type of fever), do not use ice and cold water for cooling

• Do not use aspirin, analgin, etc.