How do I check my baby's temperature correctly and when should I give paracetamol?

Use a digital thermometer in the armpit for babies under 6 months. Paracetamol (Calpol) is generally safe after 2 months if fever is above 100.4°F (38°C), but always confirm dosage with your pediatrician first.

Community Answers from Moms(10)

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

1. 1

   Use a digital thermometer under the armpit — forehead strips are not accurate for babies. Anything above 100.4°F is considered a fever.

2. 2

   Our pediatrician said Calpol can be given after 2 months if fever crosses 100.4°F. Always go by weight-based dosage, not age.

3. 3

   Don't give paracetamol just because baby feels warm. Check temperature first and sponge with lukewarm water before medicating.

4. 4

   If baby is under 3 months with any fever, skip home remedies and go straight to the doctor — it can be serious at that age.

5. 5

   A digital thermometer placed underarm works for checking temperature. Don't give medication until the temperature is consistently above about 99.8F, checked a few times - babies' bodies stay a little warm, especially after waking, which is normal.

6. 6

   Dosage depends on weight and must be confirmed by your paediatrician (e.g. 0.8 ml was prescribed for a 5.2 kg baby) - don't guess, as a wrong dose can cause adverse effects. Calpol can generally be repeated up to 4 times with a 4-6 hour gap, but don't give it for more than two days without review.

7. 7

   Don't bundle the baby in warm clothing during fever - extra layers can spike body temperature. Keep to a t-shirt and light bottoms, and use a cool/water compress on the forehead and stomach. If the baby is hot, wipe with a cloth dipped in running tap water.

8. 8

   Keep the baby hydrated - breastfeed/feed milk every 2-3 hours, do contact naps, and continue feeding even if you're sick.

9. 9

   A fever of 40C/104F, or that doesn't come down with paracetamol, warrants seeing a doctor (emergency if needed). For high fever on doctor's advice, some use cold sponging followed immediately by dry-cloth sponging so the baby doesn't feel cold.

10. 10

    With painless vaccines, some paediatricians advise giving Calpol once immediately after vaccination regardless of fever, and avoiding massage and bath that day.