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Baby Health

My 11-month-old has a 101F fever - how often should I give medicine and when should I worry?

Moms and doctors advise paracetamol (Calpol/P-250) every 4-6 hours for fever under 101F, dosed by weight. For 101F+ or fever that won't drop, doctors may add ibuprofen (ibugesic) after a gap. Wipe with lukewarm (not cold) water, keep clothing light, and room at ~25C.

💡Quick Answer

  • Paracetamol every 4-6 hours, dosed by weight
  • For 101F+ or no relief, doctor may add ibuprofen after a gap
  • Wipe the whole body with lukewarm (never cold) water
  • Keep clothing light and room around 25C
  • See a doctor if fever crosses ~103F or lasts beyond 2 days

⚠️ Caution:Ibuprofen is generally only for babies over 6 months and never on an empty stomach - confirm with your paediatrician. Any fever in a baby under 3 months (100.4F / 38C or higher) needs same-day medical attention. Never alternate medicines or exceed doses without your doctor's guidance.

🤔What Parents Worry About

A baby's first high fever is frightening, and parents worry about the temperature 'not coming down' between doses. Experienced moms explain that fever is the body fighting infection, that lukewarm sponging bridges the gap between doses, and that clear temperature and duration thresholds tell you when it's truly time to see the doctor.

Community Answers from Moms(5)

Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.

  1. 1

    Calpol every 4-6 hours for fever under 101F. If it doesn't come down, our doctor said to give ibugesic after a 2-hour gap; for 101F or higher, give ibugesic directly. Always confirm the dose by weight with your doctor.

  2. 2

    Keep constantly wiping the body - not just the forehead - with a cloth dipped in lukewarm water. Cold water is a mistake; it can cause shivering.

  3. 3

    Don't overdress the baby thinking they feel cold. Light, airy clothes bring the temperature down faster. Keep the AC around 26 with a low fan.

  4. 4

    My cut-off is 103F - anything above that we go to the doctor, and above 104F warrants an immediate visit. Most viral fevers settle in about 2 days.

  5. 5

    If the interval hasn't passed and the temperature rises again, use the lukewarm-cloth method rather than giving another dose early. Stick to the doctor's timing.

About These Answers

The information shared on this page comes from real experiences of mothers in our community. While we strive to provide helpful insights, this content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician, healthcare provider, or other qualified medical professional for any questions regarding your child's health or development.

Last reviewed: September 1, 2026

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My 11-month-old has a 101F fever - how often should I give medicine and when should I worry? | Real Mom Answers | Mom Insider