What NOT to Do When Baby Falls Ill

Mistake 1: Cover up my baby in blanket to let her “sweat it out”(a common advice from many older-generation parents).

This intervention is not advisable as the baby’s temperature may go higher and develop febrile fit. Instead, let your baby be cloth in light clothing in a cool and well-ventilated environment. Give your baby plenty of fluids to hydrate him.

Mistake 2: Give my baby an ice cold bath when she has a high raging fever.

Giving your baby an ice cold bath is not recommended as your baby will have chills and the temperature will rise. Instead, parents should monitor the baby’s temperature 3-4 hourly. Your baby has a fever if his temperature is 38°C and above. Remove his clothing, cover him with a towel, and sponge him with lukewarm water. Pay attention to the armpits and groins, drying him after sponging.

When to worry when Baby is having a fever? What are the danger signs to look out for?

• Feeding poorly
• Fretful and irritable
• Drowsy and lethargic
• Has difficulty breathing
• Vomiting & diarrhoea
• Has decreased urine output
• Baby has rashes

Mistake 3: Give my baby over the counter (OTC) fever medications when she has a fever.

It is not advisable as you may not give the baby the correct dosage of the medication. Dosage of the medication is important according to the baby’s age and weight. Instead, see a doctor to obtain suitable medicine with the right dosage.

Mistake 4: When my baby has diarrhoea, I just continue with her usual milk feed.

Your baby may not be able to tolerate the full strength milk. You need to dilute the milk to half strength to replace fluid loss. Give half strength milk for formula fed baby or change to half strength soy milk. Breastfeeding mothers can continue to breastfeed their babies.

Do also look out for dehydration signs “ blood or mucus in stool, vomiting, fever, dry mouth, dry tongue and lips, sunken eyes, sunken fontanelle, concentrated urine, irritability, drowsiness, listlessness and lethargic.

If you have more questions, please contact our Alvernia Parentcraft Services here to assist you.