What is a Fever?

What is a Fever?
A fever is a form of inflammation, and inflammation is a local fever. It is NOT good to suppress a fever, because it is a normal response by the body as a way to defend itself against pathogens. It is especially important to allow young children (under 7 years old) to have a fever as it will help build their immune function and thereby their specific immunity.

Fever of 37.5°C or 99.5°F: encourages more bacterial growth
Fever 37.5°-39°C or 99.5°-102.2° F: stops bacteria and viruses from growing
Fever 39-40.5°C or 102.2°-104.9°F: kills bacteria
Fever over 40.5°C or 104.9°F: in older children and adults can start destroying the body’s own
cells, which is not ideal. However, in younger children it is not uncommon to reach high fevers.

So, you want to allow the body to have a fever, so that it can kill off bacteria and viruses, however, you don’t want to let it get too high or last too long as that can start to be a substantial energy drainer.

Make sure that with a fever you stay hydrated, sipping fluids on a regular basis. It is also recommended to drink electrolyte drinks (such as Cell Food or Endurlyte) and eat chicken soup to ensure that you keep your electrolyte levels up and prevent dehydration.