Date: 03 Feb 2026
A sudden fever at night in a baby can be one of the most stressful experiences for parents. With little ones unable to tell us what’s wrong, temperatures rising, and the clock ticking past bedtime, it’s natural to feel anxious.
The good news is that with the right information, you can respond calmly and effectively — ensuring your baby gets safe first-line care and, when necessary, urgent help.
In Kenya, common causes of fever in babies include viral infections (like colds and flu), teething discomfort, post-vaccination reactions, and in some regions, malaria or other bacterial illnesses. Always monitor closely and seek professional help when needed.
A fever is when the body temperature is higher than normal. For infants and toddlers, a fever often means a rectal temperature above 38°C (100.4°F).
Fever isn’t a disease — it’s a symptom that the bod y is fighting something. But not all fevers are serious.
Colds, flu, and other viral illnesses are the most common causes of fever in babies. These often worsen at night and usually resolve within a few days.
Teething may cause a slight temperature rise, irritability, and poor sleep, but it rarely causes high fever.
Some vaccines trigger mild fever as the immune system responds. This usually occurs within 24–48 hours.
Urinary tract infections, pneumonia, ear infections, and malaria (in endemic areas) can cause persistent or high fever and require medical treatment.
Before turning to medicines, here are safe steps you can take:
Use a digital thermometer for reliable readings. Rectal measurements are most accurate for babies under 3 years.
Fever causes increased fluid loss. For breastfed babies, continue frequent feeds. For older infants, offer small amounts of water.
Sleep is healing — make sure other distractions are reduced and your baby can rest peacefully.
In Kenya, paracetamol-based syrups are the first choice for reducing fever and relieving mild pain in infants. Always follow the dosage instructions based on the baby’s age and weight.
Calpol Suspension 60ml is a child-friendly paracetamol syrup designed to provide gentle yet effective relief from fever, headaches, teething pain, sore throat, earache, and post-immunization fever. With its pleasant strawberry flavor, it is well accepted by children, making medicine time stress-free for parents
Cetamol Syrup 60ml is a trusted pediatric pain reliever and fever reducer designed to provide quick and effective relief for children suffering from fever, headaches, toothaches, and body pain. Formulated with paracetamol, it works by lowering fever and easing discomfort without causing stomach irritation.
Always double-check with your doctor or pharmacist — dosing depends on weight and age.
Important safety rules:
Important: Do not give more than the recommended dose. Paracetamol products must be spaced at least 4–6 hours apart and should not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours unless directed by a healthcare provider. Excess can harm the liver.
A fever can be harmless but sometimes signals something that needs urgent medical attention. Go to the nearest clinic or hospital — especially at night — if you notice any of the following:
These symptoms can point to severe infections like malaria, meningitis, or pneumonia that need immediate attention.
When a baby has a fever, the body needs to release heat.
Over-bundling can actually raise body temperature, especially at night.
A well-ventilated room helps reduce discomfort.
A cooler environment supports better sleep and temperature regulation.
Fever increases fluid loss through sweating.
Good hydration helps prevent dehydration and supports recovery.
A lukewarm bath can gently lower the temperature and soothe your baby.
Sleep helps the immune system fight infection.
You don’t need to wake a sleeping baby just to reduce fever unless advised by a doctor.
Physical comfort matters just as much as medicine.
Your presence helps reduce stress, which can worsen discomfort and crying.
Check temperature every 4–6 hours or if your baby feels hotter or seems unwell.
A baby who is feeding and responding normally is often less concerning.
If your baby is uncomfortable:
Medicine is meant to improve comfort — not to eliminate fever completely.
1. How high does a baby’s fever need to be before I should worry?
A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) is considered fever. In babies under 3 months, any fever needs medical evaluation. For older babies, call your doctor if it persists beyond 24–48 hours or if there are worrying symptoms.
2. Can I use paracetamol and ibuprofen together?
In older children, sometimes they are alternated under medical guidance, but for babies under 6 months, stick to paracetamol only unless a doctor advises otherwise.
3. What if my baby refuses medicine at night?
Try a small amount at a time with the syringe. If the baby spits it up right away, consult your health provider for alternatives.
4. Is every fever dangerous?
No. Many fevers are from common viral infections. But persistent fevers, especially with behaviors like lethargy or breathing trouble, should prompt urgent care.