A few days back, a photo of 'fever management guidelines' was making rounds on the internet. Apparently, the guidelines were issued by KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore. However, yesterday evening, KKH's Facebook page clarified that the guidelines were not issued by them.
According to a report, Ms Jayastina Archigal, a nurse at the emergency department at the children's hospital came across this note. As it was devoid of any logo and was written in 'poor English', she suspected that it was not official. She might have pointed it out to the authorities as on 26 July at 1851 hours, the Facebook page of the hospital made the following announcement.
It reads:
"ALERT: We have been alerted to an online circulation of a note titled ‘KK FEVER GUIDELINES FOR KIDS (BELOW 16 YEARS OLD)’, said to be issued by “KKH”. Please be informed that these guidelines are NOT circulated by KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH)."
Furthermore, the correct guidelines to manage fever in children could be found on KKH Healthpedia web page here.
Since the clarification, the unofficial guidelines have been taken down.
When to go to the emergency if your child has fever
Some type of fevers can be managed at home. However, it is wise to know at what point should you visit the emergency. This video by KK Women's and Children's Hospital will guide you about the same.
To summarise, take your child to an emergency if he/she shows one or more of these symptoms
- High-grade fever not responding to paracetamol,
- Persistent vomiting
- Unusual rashes
- Neck stiffness
- Drowsiness or irritability
- Breathing difficulties
Currently, fevers due to the Dengue and Zika viruses are seen in Singapore. So be aware of the symptoms of both. Here is some more information about Dengue and Zika.
For most of the other conditions, your GP will prescribe paracetamol (acetaminophen).
If the fever is less than 39 C, you can give paracetamol 6 hourly. If it is more than 39 C, you can give it every four hours.
Things to do:
- Dress the child in light clothes, keeping the room ventilated
- Keep the child hydrated
- Sponge if necessary with lukewarm water
Things to avoid:
- Avoid using a lot of blankets
- Do not use ice-cold water for sponging
For detailed guidelines, you can visit their web page. And, don't believe in everything that is shared on Social Media. Remember the S.U.R.E initiative by the National Library Board, Singapore. Check the Source, Understand the message, Research more about the claim and Evaluate it against trusted sources.
Stay safe, Singapore.
(Image source: Facebook.)
Also, read Zika cluster reported at Serangoon North Avenue 1