An urgent call to emergency services is advised when a baby under three months develops a fever exceeding 38 °C. This guidance comes from a conversation with Elena Nechaeva, a knowledgeable ambulance doctor at JSC Medicine, part of the Academician Roitberg clinic, who shared practical advice for keeping infants safe. For babies younger than three months, any persistent high temperature is treated as a potentially serious signal requiring prompt in-person assessment. Nechaeva stresses that in these very young patients, fever can be a sign of infections or other health issues that may progress rapidly, so proactive medical evaluation is essential rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. In all cases, caregivers should consider calling for professional help if the infant’s temperature rises and cannot be brought down quickly with appropriate measures, or if other warning signs appear, such as poor feeding, lethargy, irritability, or convulsions. This emphasis on timely action reflects medical practice that prioritizes early detection and intervention for the most vulnerable age group. The doctor’s remarks align with official caution for newborns and infants, highlighting that swift access to medical care can be lifesaving in some circumstances. The key takeaway is simple: when a baby is under three months old, fever is treated with a high level of seriousness and appropriate medical follow-up is strongly encouraged. This approach helps ensure that any serious underlying condition is not overlooked and that the infant receives the right tests and care as soon as possible, under professional supervision. The message from RIAMO and Elena Nechaeva underscores the principle that early medical involvement supports safer outcomes for newborns and their families.
For children older than three months, the same clinician indicates that ambulance assistance should be considered if the temperature climbs above 38.5 °C and reaches as high as 40 °C, particularly in cases where there is a history of seizures, central nervous system pathology, or congenital heart or lung defects. The guidance reflects a cautious, situation-aware stance: while many fevers in older children and adults can be managed at home with fluids and appropriate fever reducers, certain risk factors and rapid changes in condition justify urgent medical evaluation. Nechaeva explains that a fever spike in these patients is not automatically an emergency, but the potential for serious complications makes timely consultation with healthcare professionals prudent. The emphasis is on recognizing patterns and risk factors that signal the need for urgent care, rather than treating every fever as the same. This balanced advice helps families differentiate between manageable fevers and warning signs that require professional assessment, ensuring that children with higher risk profiles receive appropriate attention without unnecessary alarm. The doctor also notes that in typical viral or mild bacterial infections, a temperature rise up to 40 °C during the first two or three days often responds to supportive care, such as ample fluid intake and appropriate fever-reducing medications. Parents can administer these remedies according to age and weight guidelines, and many children will feel better as the fever gradually declines. However, the clinician cautions against delaying medical evaluation when symptoms persist or worsen, especially in the presence of underlying conditions that can complicate a fever. This practical guidance helps caregivers navigate common pediatric fever scenarios with greater confidence and safety.
Elena Nechaeva cautions that a gradual decrease in temperature typically occurs within a few hours after administering antipyretic medications, but caregivers should monitor for any signs of deterioration or unusual behavior. In some cases, fever reduction is followed by a period of continued monitoring to ensure that the child remains stable and responsive. The medical professional also emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on fever as the sole indicator of a child’s health. Other signs—such as changes in sleeping patterns, hydration status, or activity level—serve as important clues about a child’s overall condition. Parents are encouraged to seek medical advice if there is any doubt about a child’s well-being, especially when dealing with very young infants or those with known health issues. The overarching message is clear: fever management is not a one-size-fits-all task, and early, informed decision-making can help prevent complications while preserving comfort and safety for the child. The insights shared by Nechaeva and the RIAMO team reinforce the idea that vigilance, timely medical input, and thoughtful care strategies form the cornerstone of effective pediatric fever management.