A persistent low-grade fever might alarm parents. In most cases, it's a viral infection, like the common cold. However, if your child's fever lasts three days or longer, consult his doctor. For a child who is 2 years old or younger, consult the doctor after two days of persistent low-grade fever, recommends MayoClinic.com. Treatments can also help keep your small child comfortable during a fever.
Sponge Bath
A sponge bath cools your child's body temperature, according to MayoClinic.com. Run a bath with lukewarm water. Use a sponge to spread water on your child's torso, legs and arms. After about five to 10 minutes, end the bath. Watch your child closely for signs of shivering during the bath. If she shivers, get her out of the bath right away. Shivering increases body heat, resulting in a higher fever.
Hydration
Even with a low-grade fever, a small child is at risk for dehydration. Fight this risk by offering fluids frequently. Water, diluted juice and broth are a few options. Ask your doctor about offering an electrolyte solution to your child. You can also purchase electrolyte replacement popsicles, which is appealing to small children. If your child stops drinking or eating, contact her doctor.
Medications
It's tempting to give a child fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce a low-grade fever. However, resist the urge and consult your doctor first. Your doctor might recommend forgoing fever reducers for a low-grade fever. These medications might prolong a small child's illness, according to MayoClinic.com. If your doctor recommends the use of these medications, follow the doctor's instructions for dosing. Overdosing can cause kidney damage and death in small children.
Also, never give your small child aspirin. This medication puts children at risk for Reye's syndrome, a serious medical problem.
Medical Attention
A low-grade fever isn't usually a concern. However, there are times when a low-grade fever requires medical care. For example, any time a child under the age of 3 months gets a fever, you should consult her doctor, recommends MayoClinic.com. Children this age have young immune systems, requiring close monitoring. Also, if your child is listless, irritable or vomits frequently, it's time to seek medical attention.
