It is August, and the season is known for conditions that trigger the spread of viral fever, especially among children. There has been a rise in out-patient cases with complaints of upper respiratory tract infections in children at government hospitals and paediatrician clinics. Doctors list out various factors for the spread of viral fever, pneumonia and malaria.
It is a general phenomenon during this time of the year. “It is tough for children to adjust to change in temperature after a harsh summer, water contamination, humidity and erratic rains. All these conditions enable the viruses to thrive longer. Patients, especially children, develop viral fever, headache, cold, cough and rashes in a few cases,” says Dr. Y. Sandhya, neonatologist and paediatrician.
Usually, viral fever among children stays for three to four days.
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But, out of anxiety, most parents insist on conducting various tests and go for antibiotics treatment. It is better to observe the child for a couple of days and avoid use of antibiotics, says the doctor.
“There will be a fall in food intake among children when they have fever, and parents should give them oral fluids, coconut water and butter milk. This apart, regular cold sponging should be done. All these measures will help in bringing down temperature,” Dr. Sandhya advises.
Apart from viral fever, a few sporadic cases of jaundice have also been reported this season.
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In some dengue cases, children develop rashes, and parents should immediately take them to a paediatrician.
Most parents do not complete the dosage of antibiotics, and this should be avoided, she adds.