Fever, flu or something more serious? Our tips for using a child's temperature to inform and advise.

Fevers, flu, high temperatures and a sniffly nose are some of the most common reasons a child visits the first-aid room. 

However, when does a raised temperature signal something like a mild cold/flu, and when should staff advise parents/carers to seek further medical assistance?

For first-aiders among us, we will be aware of what temperatures are too high and what certain temperature thresholds may indicate. For our colleagues and even parents/carers, the usual test may be the back of the hand on the forehead. This isn't enough. 

Here's what school staff need to know when managing fever and temperatures in children.

1. What counts as a fever in children? 

A fever generally means a temperature of 38 degrees or higher. 

This increase in temperature is a result of the body's natural way of fighting infection; a higher temperature isn't always a sign of something serious, but a signal to be closely monitored. 

Common causes of fever include: 

🤧 Cold

🤒 Flu and other viral infections

👂 Ear, throat and chest infections

🪳 Stomach bugs 

💉 Post-vaccination reactions 

If you regularly monitor temperatures, be sure to keep both a digital and a paper record. If you can look back at the end of a day or week and see the trends, you'll be much better placed to spot something early. 

2. How to check temperature safely in school

In schools, we typically use digital thermometers, but depending on the device you use, you may check: 

➡️ Under the armpit (axillary) - the more common method

➡️ Ear (tympanic) - quick, but readings can vary if positioned incorrectly. 

Here are some tips for taking accurate readings:

💭 Follow the specific instructions on the packaging for the thermometer you're using. It sounds too obvious, doesn't it? I always think I know best until I realise reading the packet would have helped!

💭 Ensure the child has been indoors for at least 10 minutes (cold weather can skew your readings).

💭 Wipe the thermometer before and after use. 

‼️ Never use glass mercury thermometers. 

3. Fever vs. Flu: Recognising common symptoms.

At this time of year, our internal monologue is going crazy when we see kids in the first-aid room. Is it a cold? Is it the flu? Could it be something more serious?

4. When is a fever a sign of something more serious?

While most fevers settle on their own, our colleagues should be aware of the red flags. 

Advise your parent/carer community to seek urgent medical advice if their child has:

🤒 A rash that doesn't fade when pressed. 

🤒 Difficulty breathing.

🤒 Stiff neck or sensitivity to light.

🤒 Blue lips or unusually pale/patchy skin.

🤒 Persistent vomiting.

🤒 Seizures or unusual drowsiness. 

Any one of these symptoms is undoubtedly a sign that medical attention should be sought, but together, or consistently, may require a more in-depth analysis.