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Fever and walking: can a child with a temperature of 38 degrees go outside?

Many parents wonder if light fever, slightly exceeding temperature of 38 degrees and/ or subfebrile condition you can take a chance spacer in the open air, or is it better to give it up? subfebrile condition Is this enough of a symptom for a child to have to spend the whole day at home? When going outside with a fever is dangerous? 

In this article, we will discuss whether it is safe to go outside when you have a fever, and when it is better to stay at home to provide your child with the right conditions for recovery.

What is subfebrile condition and fever?

Subfebrile condition is an elevated body temperature within the range 37,0-38,0 ° C. This status indicates that the the body's defense mechanisms, which are designed to help fight infections such as viruses or bacteria. This is a natural response, designed to support immunity without overloading it.

Fever however, it begins above 38°C and is an expression of more intensive mobilization of the body, which creates an environment that is not conducive to the development of microorganisms. Higher body temperature favors the processes of eliminating pathogens, constituting a defense mechanism that limits their multiplication.

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Anna Milewska

Senior specialist in the Department of Assessment and Cooperation Development, Institute of Mother and Child

Can you go outside with a temperature of 38°C?

We already know the basic difference between a subfebrile state and a fever. Doctors often hear the question from parents of small children: Can you go outside with a temperature of 38°C?? Walking with a feverish child can pose several medical risks, including: load the body, which fights infection or the development of other symptoms of infection.

Jolanta Wacławek

Pediatrician in the One-Day Hospitalization Department, Institute of Mother and Child

The expert advises:

During a low-grade fever or fever, the body uses more energy, and walking or exertion can additionally burden the weakened immune system, increasing the risk of complications. Therefore, it is best to provide rest, adequate sleep, and stable conditions to support the healing process. and think about a walk when the child's well-being improves.

Why is it not allowed? go out outside with a fever?

Fever, especially when associated with viral or bacterial infections, makes a child's body more sensitive to external conditions, especially changes in air temperature, which can lead to severity of infection symptoms.

Answering the question: Why shouldn’t you go outside with a fever?, it should be emphasized that the body needs a stable environment for regeneration at this time, and walking can do more harm than good, especially with exacerbated symptoms.

Going outside can lead to unpredictable reactions, such as an increase in fever, excessive sweating, and consequently the risk of catching a cold or hypothermia. Fever weakens the body, so walks and additional exertion can be too much of a burden for a child who needs rest and regeneration at this time.

Subfebrile condition and/ or fever and walk: recommendations

If a child has a low-grade fever or fever, it is recommended to:

  • Avoiding going outside – especially in case of large temperature differences or cold weather, so as not to aggravate the symptoms of infection;
  • Airing rooms:
Jolanta Wacławek

Pediatrician in the One-Day Hospitalization Department, Institute of Mother and Child

The expert advises:

Access to fresh air in rooms is crucial both during infection and in everyday life. Regular airing of rooms helps to improve air quality, reducing the number of microorganisms, dust and allergens. Especially during illness, proper air exchange helps the body regenerate. 

Another good solution is to use air purifier with humidification function, which helps maintain optimal humidity and air purity, supporting the proper functioning of the respiratory system, which is especially important during an infection.

  • Taking care of hydration – with a low-grade fever or fever, the child is more susceptible to dehydration and overheating, because the body uses a lot of energy to fight the infection. Loss of fluids can further weaken the child;
  • Body regeneration:

To support the body's recovery during a fever, it is crucial to provide your child with a stable environment. It is recommended to adopt a conservative lifestyle, which means leaving your child at home, especially in cold weather. This will also reduce the risk of worsening symptoms, such as cough, chills and general weakness.

  • Monitoring the child's condition – regular monitoring of your child’s health allows for a quicker response if symptoms become more severe.
  • A short walk – in cases of low-grade fever, a short walk may be permissible, but only when the weather is stable and the child feels better. It is then recommended to avoid excessive exertion so as not to strain the immune system.
Jolanta Wacławek

Pediatrician in the One-Day Hospitalization Department, Institute of Mother and Child

The expert advises:

In relation to the issue of subfebrile condition and walking, it is worth noting that with milder symptoms of infection, a short walk can have a positive effect on the child's well-being. Cool air helps to shrink the mucous membrane, which can alleviate the symptoms of a runny nose, while moist air helps to moisturise the mucous membranes and facilitate the removal of secretions. During a walk, a runny nose may temporarily subside, and additionally, sunny weather supports the synthesis of vitamin D, which has a positive effect on the child's body.

When can a child safely return to taking walks po fever?

When a parent notices that their child is feeling better, they can consider returning to walks, which – as we mentioned – also bring a number of benefits.

Remember to carefully observe your child's well-being before returning to walks after a fever: whether the child has more energy, regains appetite, shows no signs of fatigue and is happy to play. A stable body temperature, below 37,5°C for at least 24 hours, is one of the key indicators of recovery and... walking.

It is worth starting with shorter walks, avoiding large crowds and sudden changes in temperature. Clothing should be adapted to the weather, and it is best to plan a walk at a moderate temperature. Short, quiet activity in the fresh air will help with recovery, but it is worth avoiding intense exertion so as not to overload the body after the infection.

 

Medical consultation

Jolanta Wacławek

Pediatrician in the One-Day Hospitalization Department, Institute of Mother and Child

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