Introduction

Fever in a newborn is not just a routine illness — it is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Unlike older children or adults, newborn babies have immature immune systems and may not show clear signs of serious illness. According to Dr. Samir Khanapurkar, even a mild rise in temperature in a newborn can be a sign of a life-threatening infection.

Early recognition and prompt treatment can be lifesaving.

What Is Considered Fever In A Newborn?

A newborn is a baby younger than 28 days. Fever in a newborn is defined as:

• A rectal temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher
• Any temperature at or above this level should never be ignored, even if the baby appears otherwise well.

Why Fever In Newborns Is Dangerous

Newborns cannot effectively fight infections, and bacteria or viruses can spread rapidly in their bodies. Dr. Samir Khanapurkar emphasizes that fever may be the only warning sign of a serious condition.

Possible severe infections include:

• Neonatal sepsis
• Meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Urinary tract infection
• Bloodstream infections

Without early treatment, these conditions can progress quickly and lead to organ failure or death.

Common Causes Of Fever In Newborns

Fever in newborns can be caused by:

• Bacterial infections acquired during or after birth
• Viral infections
• Infections transmitted from the mother
• Urinary tract infections
• Pneumonia
• Meningitis

Unlike older babies, fever due to simple viral illness is less common in newborns and must always be investigated.

Symptoms That May Accompany Fever

In newborns, symptoms can be subtle. Parents should watch for:

• Poor feeding or refusal to feed
• Excessive sleepiness or difficulty waking
• Irritability or weak crying
• Breathing difficulty
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Reduced urine output
• Pale, bluish, or mottled skin

Dr. Samir Khanapurkar stresses that absence of symptoms does not rule out serious infection.

How Fever In Newborns Is Evaluated

Any newborn with fever requires immediate hospital evaluation. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood tests and blood cultures
• Urine tests and cultures
• Lumbar puncture to rule out meningitis
• Chest X-ray if respiratory symptoms are present

These tests help identify the cause and guide treatment.

Treatment Of Fever In Newborns

Treatment is started immediately, often before test results are available.

Management usually includes:

• Hospital admission
• Intravenous antibiotics
• Close monitoring of vital signs
• Supportive care such as fluids and oxygen if needed

Dr. Samir Khanapurkar highlights that early antibiotic treatment significantly reduces complications and mortality.

Can Fever In Newborns Be Prevented?

While not all infections can be prevented, certain measures reduce risk:

• Proper hand hygiene before handling the baby
• Avoiding exposure to sick individuals
• Timely maternal infection screening during pregnancy
• Exclusive breastfeeding to boost immunity

Despite precautions, any fever still requires urgent evaluation.

When Should Parents Seek Emergency Care?

Seek immediate medical attention if a newborn:

• Has a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher
• Feels unusually warm or cold
• Feeds poorly or is unusually sleepy
• Shows breathing difficulty or color changes

Dr. Samir Khanapurkar advises parents to never give home remedies or fever medicines to newborns without medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mild fever normal in newborns?

No. Any fever in a newborn is abnormal and must be evaluated urgently.

Can vaccinations cause fever in newborns?

Routine vaccines are usually not given in the first few weeks. Fever should never be assumed to be vaccine-related in newborns.

Should parents wait and observe?

No. Waiting can be dangerous. Immediate medical care is essential.

Can fever be present without infection?

Rarely. Infection must always be ruled out first.

Conclusion

Fever in newborns is a medical emergency, not a minor illness. Because symptoms may be subtle and infections can progress rapidly, prompt evaluation and treatment are critical.

Dr. Samir Khanapurkar emphasizes that early hospital care saves lives and prevents long-term complications.

If your newborn has a fever or appears unwell, seek immediate medical care. Do not delay.

Consult Dr. Samir Khanapurkar for expert neonatal evaluation and emergency care — because timely treatment can make all the difference.