Every parent knows that anxious feeling when a child’s forehead feels warmer than usual. You touch, wait, check again, and wonder “Is this something serious?” Fever and flu are among the most common reasons parents visit us at Maternité Hospital. Most of the time, it’s the body’s way of fighting back, not a sign of danger. But knowing how to care for your child at home and when to visit the doctor makes all the difference.

Why Fever Happens

Fever isn’t an illness by itself. It’s a signal that the immune system is working. When germs enter the body, the temperature rises to help fight them off. Many fevers in children come from viral infections especially during seasonal changes. In these cases, rest and fluids help the body recover naturally.

Caring for Fever at Home

The first step in pediatric fever care is to stay calm. Check your child’s temperature gently, keep them in light clothing, and offer plenty of water or fluids. Fever medicines should always be given as per the doctor’s advice not more, not less. Wiping the forehead and underarms with a soft, damp cloth can bring comfort.
Avoid wrapping the child in blankets or using very cold water, both can make things worse. The goal isn’t to “remove” the fever instantly but to help your child stay comfortable while the body heals.
If your child is younger than three months, or if the fever lasts more than three days, call your doctor. High fever with vomiting, breathing difficulty, or unusual sleepiness should never be ignored.

Understanding the Flu

Flu and cold often look the same at first, a runny nose, sore throat, mild cough. The difference is in how quickly it hits. Flu comes fast and makes your child tired all over. In children, it can also bring headache, chills, or even mild stomach upset.
Timely child flu treatment helps prevent complications. Antiviral medicines or fever reducers are prescribed when needed. Rest, fluids, and light, home-cooked meals are key. Keep your child away from school until they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours.

What Not to Do

Many parents worry and start antibiotics without consulting a doctor. This does more harm than good most flu and fever cases are viral and don’t need antibiotics at all. Also, avoid using adult medicines or strong painkillers for children. Always check the right dosage and consult your pediatrician first.

When to Visit the Hospital

If your child’s fever crosses 102°F, or if they’re breathing fast, refusing to eat or drink, or seem confused or unusually quiet, bring them in. In small children, dehydration can develop quickly. At Maternité Hospital, our pediatric health care team checks vital signs, ensures the fever isn’t caused by something deeper, and helps parents manage recovery smoothly.

The Maternité Way

We understand how worried parents feel when their child is unwell. Our doctors take time to explain what’s happening, what to do at home, and when to return. Most childhood fevers and flu recover beautifully with rest, fluids, and love.
A little patience, gentle care, and medical guidance when needed, that’s all it takes to see your child’s energy come bouncing back.