Understanding fever in babies

Fever can be defined as 'an elevation of body temperature above the normal daily variation'.¹ It is a normal physiological response of the body to a variety of conditions and occurs most commonly due to an infection. It is an immunological defense mechanism of the body which helps to fight infections and in itself is not harmful. Fever causes significant anxiety among parents and health professionals due to the uncertainties associated with it and an expectation that it must be returned to normal fast. The feeling of helplessness among parents is enhanced if the child is a neonate (ie in the first 28 days of life) or infant.