Fevers in Children: Friend or Foe and Natural Care Options

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Fevers in children are not to be feared, but respected as part of the body’s natural immune fighting properties.  A fever is the body’s way of slowing the replication of a virus or bacteria by mobilizing the body’s immune fighting properties to take action in fighting the illness.

While a fever can make your child feel poorly, it is important to remember that the body is doing what it is designed to do to fight the illness. When is it appropriate to use fever reducing medications? When your child is so ill that he is unable to stay hydrated, is so uncomfortable they are unable to sleep at night, or they are feeling so poorly they are not eating. In addition, fever reducing medications may be needful if your child has a high fever, has other medical conditions, or has been instructed to take fever reducing medications by your health care provider. ​Administering fever reducing medications will help bring down the fever, but will not help the body fight the illness and may actually hinder the body's efficiency in fighting the illness.

While most febrile viral illnesses can be managed at home, there are times it is important to contact your child’s health care provider. Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) indicate your heath care provider should be contacted if your infant is less than three months old and has a fever, is 3-6 mos. old and has a fever of 102.5F or higher, if your child is less than two years old and has a fever of 100.4F for more than 24 hours, if your child has a high fever of 104F, or has a prolonged fever greater than three days.

A fever in a young infant, a high fever, or a prolonged fever greater than three days duration may indicate a bacterial infection or more severe illness that may need additional treatment. In addition, other concerning accompanying symptoms such as a stiff neck, dehydration, rash, severe headache, severe sore throat, severe ear pain, severe or prolonged cough, breathing difficulties, or repeated ongoing vomiting/diarrhea, would also require additional medical evaluation. {See table from the American Academy of Pediatrics for more specific guidelines and details.}

Finally, as the parent, if you are uncomfortable with your child’s condition or have questions about your child’s illness, please contact your child’s health care provider or seek appropriate medical care. If you are administering medications to your child while they are ill, please use as directed by your health care provider or as directed on the product.

Fever/Flu Recommendations
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Hydration-It is important to keep your child well hydrated during a febrile illness as they are more likely to become dehydrated. It is recommended to avoid sugary drinks and sugar added sports drinks as added refined sugar may decrease the body’s immune fighting properties. Filtered water, ice chips, bone broth, coconut water, and fresh fruit purées, slushes, or smoothies are all good sources of hydration.

Rest-Children’s bodies need rest to recover and fight the illness.

Nutrition-Encourage vegetables and fruits that are easily digested which are good sources of vitamin C and vitamin A. Good sources of vitamin C include: citrus fruits, berries, cauliflower, and peppers. Good sources of vitamin A include: green leafy vegetables, carrots, and squash. Zinc is also helpful in slowing viral replication and may be found in beef bone broth. Sugary foods and fried foods may hamper the immune system and increase inflammation so they are best avoided.

Sponging-For higher fevers, this may be done with a lukewarm moist cloth or cool cloth to the head or armpits. BeKoool soft gel sheets, available at your local pharmacy, may also be applied to the forehead.

What are natural options for a viral febrile illness? ​

Oscillococcinum
​A researched homeopathic medicine that may reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms. It is most effective taken at the onset of fever and flu symptoms. It may be used in children 2 yrs. of age and older. (Available at your local pharmacy or this FullScript link.)
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788925/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1475491699902084

Black Elderberry - Some research studies have demonstrated antiviral properties of black elderberry and a reduced severity of illness pertaining to flu-like symptoms of fever, cough, and congestion. It is important to look for a preparation that does not contain added sugars or artificial ingredients. (Kids Black Elderberry AF is a reputable product designed for children without added sugars or other artificial colors/ingredients. Dosage is by weight according to manufacturer directions. I do not recommend for children under 2 yrs. unless approved by your health care provider. Available at this FullScript link.)
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347422

Reminder: Supplements are not approved by the FDA so choosing a reputable product obtained from a reputable supplier is important for your child’s safety and efficacy of the product.  {Analysis of Select Dietary Supplement Products Marketed to Support or Boost the Immune System https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35947382