Health Tips

Fever: when to see a doctor, and why a test matters

A fever is the body’s normal response to an infection. Most fevers are caused by common viral infections and settle in a few days with rest and fluids. Some, however, need a test and treatment quickly. Knowing the difference helps you act at the right time.

What counts as a fever

A temperature of 38°C or higher is generally considered a fever. Use a thermometer rather than judging by touch, and write down the readings and times.

Looking after a mild fever at home

• Rest, and drink plenty of fluids such as water, soups and oral rehydration solution.
• Wear light clothing and keep the room comfortably cool.
• Paracetamol can bring the temperature down and ease aches. Follow the dose on the pack, or ask a pharmacist, especially for children.

When a test matters

Some infections cause a fever that looks like flu at first but needs specific treatment. See a doctor and ask about testing if:

• you have recently travelled to an area where malaria is common, such as the coast or western Kenya, or abroad
• the fever has lasted more than two to three days
• the fever keeps coming back
• you also have stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, or pain when passing urine

A simple blood, urine or stool test can often find the cause, so you get the right treatment rather than guessing.

See a doctor straight away if there is

• difficulty breathing or chest pain
• a stiff neck, severe headache, confusion or unusual drowsiness
• a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it
• vomiting so that you cannot keep fluids down, or signs of dehydration (very little urine, dry mouth, dizziness)
• a fit (seizure)

Fever in babies and children

Seek medical advice the same day for:

• any fever in a baby under 3 months old
• a child who is unusually sleepy, floppy, difficult to wake, or not feeding
• a child with a fever and any of the warning signs above

Trust your instinct: if your child seems seriously unwell, get help.

Where to go in Kileleshwa

Kileleshwa Medical Plaza sees walk-in patients and emergencies every day from 9 am to 9 pm, for adults and children. Our triage team checks your temperature and vital signs first, and the laboratory and pharmacy are in the same building, so tests and medicines can be done in one visit. Book an appointment, message us on WhatsApp, or simply walk in. Outside these hours, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor.