Ways to treat a fever include rest and drinking plenty of fluids.

What Is Considered a Fever?

Fever is not an illness, but instead a way your body fights an illness or infection.

Mother checking her sick sons temperature

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The same goes for usingrubbing alcoholon the skin.

Neither strategy is effective and both can be dangerous.

Note that for children, the dosage of a fever reliever is based on weightandage.

If you are taking a multi-symptom cold or flu formula, be aware that it may contain acetaminophen.

You risk an overdose if you take additional acetaminophen, which can cause liver damage.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a fever?

Once the condition is treated, the temperature will return to normal.

An antibiotic may be necessary to treat a bacterial infection such as bacterial pneumonia or strep throat.

However, the scientific evidence does not support its use for fever.

Use extreme caution when taking any herbal remedies, especially with children.

Talk to your healthcare provider or your child’s pediatrician first.

Summary

A fever is a symptom or sign that your body is fighting an illness or infection.

Treatment may include simply letting the body fight the infection on its own.

Newborns and babies under 3 months should be seen by a pediatrician for any fever of any duration.

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