Fever

A fever is usually a symptom of an illness, like flu, overheating, or dehydration, or sometimes an infection.

When you have a fever, you may also experience a hot, flushed face, headache, loss of appetite, body aches, shivering, sweating or weakness.

How to treat at home

• Use a thermometer to take your temperature

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrate

• Rest in a cool and airy room whenever possible.

• Sponge yourself with lukewarm water. Do not use ice water or cold water, or sponge for more than 30 minutes at a time as this may cause shivering which will raise the body temperature.

• Fever can be treated by over-the-counter medications, such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure how to take the medication, especially if you have any allergies, other medical conditions or are currently on other medications

See your pharmacist if:

• You need further advice on how to manage your symptoms. Your pharmacist can also recommend other medications for your condition or advise if you need to see a GP, or visit the emergency department

See your GP if:

• Your fever is 38°C and above even after taking over-the-counter medications

• Your fever lasts more than 3 days

• You are pregnant

• You have recently returned from overseas

• You are taking medications which suppress the immune system

Go to the emergency department if you are experiencing:

• Difficulty in breathing (especially in children)

• Chest pain

• Severe headache

• Severe back or neck pain

• Coughing with blood

• Pain when urinating

• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

• Fits or seizures, e.g. your body is shaking spasmodically, or becomes rigid with arches back, clenched jaw, and eyes rolling upwards