What should I do if my child has recurrent fever?

Patient's question:

My daughter is almost three years old. Lately, she has been feverish every night, with temperatures consistently above 38 degrees Celsius. However, by the next day, her fever subsides. We took her to the hospital for a shot, but a day later, she got fever again. What medicine should we give her now?

Doctor's answer:

Hello: The nervous system of infants and young children is not yet fully developed, making them prone to high fever or a rapid return of body temperature after taking fever-reducing medication. For this reason, parents should have a basic understanding. In addition to following medical advice for treatment and caring for the sick child, parents should also learn and master some essential knowledge for identifying illnesses.
1. Observe the child's mental state. If the child has a high fever but is still in good spirits, able to laugh and play after taking fever-reducing medication, and behaves as usual, it indicates a mild condition, and home care is sufficient. However, if the child appears lethargic, fatigued, or indifferent, it suggests a serious condition, and medical attention should be sought immediately.
2. Observe the child's complexion. If the child's complexion is normal or flushed, home care can be continued with peace of mind. However, if the complexion is pale, yellow, blue, or purple, and the child appears drowsy, it indicates a severe condition, and hospitalization is necessary.
3. Check for severe, projectile vomiting. If present, it may indicate a cranial brain disorder, requiring immediate medical attention.
4. Examine the skin for rashes. If present, it may suggest an infectious disease or a drug allergy. Also, check if the skin appears purple or cool, as this may indicate circulatory failure. Both conditions require further medical evaluation.
5. Observe for abdominal pain and bloody or mucoid stools. Persistent abdominal pain that cannot be pressed may indicate acute abdominal pain, while bloody or mucoid stools may suggest dysentery or other conditions, requiring immediate hospitalization.