Childhood Fever in Nigeria: What to Do First and When to Worry

Reviewed by: Amela Pharmacy team, Uyo Last updated: 3 Feb 2026

The fever itself is rarely the whole story. One minute your child is fine, the next they’re hot, clingy, and the fan is suddenly not doing its job.

What a fever is (and what it isn’t)

A fever is the body’s way of fighting an infection. It can happen with coughs, colds, tummy bugs, teething discomfort, or after some vaccinations. A temperature of 38°C or higher is considered a fever.

It’s easy to panic and chase the number, but how your child looks and behaves matters just as much. A child who is drinking, responding, and making eye contact may be okay even with a higher temperature. A child who is unusually sleepy, not feeding, or breathing fast needs attention, even if the number seems lower.

First steps at home (calm, practical)

Start simple. Your goal is comfort and observation, not just “bringing the number down.”

• Use a digital thermometer and check temperature under the armpit for young children.
• Offer fluids often: water, breast milk, or ORS if needed.
• Dress them lightly; one breathable layer is usually enough.
• Let them rest; keep the room cool and well‑ventilated.
• Keep an eye on nappies or bathroom trips to watch for dehydration.

If they’re uncomfortable, you can use children’s paracetamol or ibuprofen only if it’s suitable for their age and weight, and only as the label directs. If you’re unsure, ask a pharmacist before giving anything.

A small, very real moment: last week a mum in Uyo told us she kept waking her toddler every hour because the fever “might jump.” She was exhausted, the child was cranky, and the fever still had its own plan. We agreed on checking at sensible intervals, focusing on fluids, and watching for red flags. She slept. The child slept. The fever eased by morning.

Common mistakes to avoid

Some well‑meant habits can make things worse or hide warning signs.

• Over‑wrapping a child in thick layers or blankets.
• Cold sponging or bathing with icy water.
• Giving antibiotics “just in case.” Most fevers in children are viral.
• Mixing multiple cold/flu products that contain the same ingredient.
• Using adult medicines or herbal mixtures that are not clearly labelled for children.
• Alternating paracetamol and ibuprofen without professional advice.

If you’re unsure about any product, ask a pharmacist. It’s safer (and cheaper) than guessing.

When to seek care soon (not emergency, but don’t delay)

Reach out to a clinic or health professional if any of these apply, even if your child seems mostly okay:

• Fever lasts more than 2–3 days or keeps returning.
• Your child is not drinking well or has fewer wet nappies than usual.
• They are unusually irritable, listless, or not their normal self.
• There is vomiting or diarrhoea that won’t settle.
• You’re simply worried and can’t shake the feeling something is off.

Trust your instincts. You know your child’s baseline better than anyone.

Red flags: seek urgent help now

These are the signs that need urgent medical attention right away:

• A baby under 3 months with a fever (38°C or higher).
• Fast or difficult breathing, grunting, or chest pulling in.
• A rash that does not fade when pressed with a clear glass.
• Stiff neck, severe headache, or sensitivity to light.
• Seizure or shaking that doesn’t stop.
• Blue, grey, very pale lips or skin, or extreme sleepiness and hard to wake.
• Signs of dehydration: no tears, dry mouth, very few wet nappies.

If you see any of these, go to the nearest emergency service or call for help immediately.

If malaria is possible

In Nigeria, malaria is a common cause of fever, but it is not the only cause. That’s why testing matters. If malaria is possible based on exposure, a rapid diagnostic test can help guide the next step. Don’t keep repeating anti‑malaria medicine without testing, and don’t assume every fever is malaria. If treatment doesn’t help or the fever returns quickly, it’s time to get reassessed.

Fever care checklist (save this)

Here’s a quick, practical checklist you can use in the first 12–24 hours:

• Check temperature with a digital thermometer.
• Offer fluids every 15–30 minutes in small sips.
• Keep clothing light; avoid thick wraps.
• Watch for normal urination or wet nappies.
• Note other symptoms: cough, diarrhoea, rash, vomiting, pain.
• Use child‑safe medicine only if needed and only as directed on the label.
• Recheck temperature after rest, not immediately after a bath.
• Keep a simple note of time, temperature, and any medicine given.

A word on medicines

Fever medicines are meant to ease discomfort, not “cure” the infection. Use one medicine at a time, keep to the label directions, and avoid adult formulations. Never give aspirin to children. If your child has asthma, kidney problems, or is dehydrated, ask before using ibuprofen.

Short disclaimer

This article is for general education and does not replace medical advice. If you’re worried about your child or symptoms are severe, please seek professional care quickly.

Sources & further reading

• NHS: High temperature (fever) in children
• WHO: Malaria fact sheet
• NCDC: Lassa fever guidance (fever not always malaria)

Stay calm, stay observant, and reach out for help when you need it.