Fever Treatment

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This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About fever

Fever is a natural and common immune system response that occurs when the body detects an illness or infection. It’s essentially the body’s way of creating an environment less favourable for harmful bacteria and viruses to survive while boosting the immune system’s effectiveness. A fever is defined as a temporary rise in body temperature above the normal range for a person’s age, typically considered to be over 38°C (100.4°F) in adults and children. Fever is most often caused by viral or bacterial infections, but it can also be triggered by other conditions such as inflammation, heat exhaustion, certain medications, or immunisations. When the immune system recognises a threat, it releases chemicals called pyrogens that signal the brain’s hypothalamus to raise the body’s temperature. This helps slow down the growth of germs and speeds up the body’s natural healing processes. Body temperature is usually measured using a thermometer, either orally, under the arm, in the ear, or rectally for more accuracy.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

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Most mild fevers usually resolve on their own with rest and some over-the-counter medication. When the fevers last long or if the patient is either too old or too young, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. You should consult a doctor for a fever if:

  • The fever lasts more than three days or is very high (above 39.4°C or 103°F).
  • You have severe symptoms, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting or diarrhoea.
  • The fever is accompanied by a rash, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, or seizures.
  • You have underlying health conditions, such as a weakened immune system or chronic illness.
  • The fever occurs in an infant under three months old.
  • If you recently travelled abroad.
  • If you have a fever that seems to be getting worse with time

Symptoms of fever usually include:

  • Flushed face
  • Feeling hot
  • Feeling sweaty when the fever goes down
  • Chills
  • Muscle ache
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting in some cases

It is important to understand the underlying cause of the fever to diagnose and treat it correctly. Here are some common types of fever:

  • Viral infections: Such as colds, flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory infections.
  • Bacterial infections: Such as tonsillitis, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.
  • Chronic illnesses: Such as rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis, which can lead to prolonged fevers.
  • Tropical diseases: Such as malaria, dengue, and typhoid fever, often cause recurring fevers.
  • Heat stroke: Causes fever without sweating.
  • Medication reactions: Some individuals may experience fevers as a side effect of specific drugs.
  • Others: Some other fevers are found in Australia such as Q Fever or Australian spotted fever (Tick bites).

When it comes to fever in children or fever in babies, it’s essential to consult a doctor if:

  • A baby under three months has a fever above 38°C
  • A baby between three to six months has a fever or appears unusually irritable, lethargic, or uncomfortable.
  • The fever lasts more than three days
  • Your child shows signs of dehydration, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, rash, or is unusually sleepy or unresponsive.
  • The fever is accompanied by a seizure, stiff neck, or severe headache.

There are many natural remedies to manage a fever such as staying hydrated, using a cool compress, plenty of rest, taking lukewarm showers, etc. It is important to avoid alcohol, doing stressful activities or bundling up while having a fever.

Yes, an online doctor can assist with a fever, especially if your local GP isn’t available. No more searching for “doctors in Brisbane” or “doctors in Perth”. Through telehealth, you can discuss symptoms with a registered healthcare provider from anywhere in Australia within 15 minutes. An online doctor can assess your condition, suggest at-home care, and, if necessary, prescribe medications or recommend further medical attention.

Yes, you can get an online medical certificate if the telehealth doctor thinks you cannot perform your daily duties in your condition. To get a doctor’s certificate online, click on Hola’s medical certificates page and request for a certificate. If warranted, you will receive one within 15 minutes.

Online prescriptions for fever work through telehealth consultations with registered healthcare providers in Australia. During the telehealth appointment, you can discuss your symptoms, and the online doctor may diagnose the cause of your fever. If necessary, they can issue instant scripts which will be directly sent to your registered mobile number as an SMS (eScript). Hola Health’s online scripts service is available 24/7 and has a turn-around time of 15 minutes which makes getting a script online easy and convenient. These scripts can be dispensed from a pharmacy of your choice, or you can get a door delivery with our pharmacy delivery service.

Telehealth makes getting a GP appointment in Australia easier and quicker regardless of the patient’s location. In 4 easy steps where you book an online consult, fill in your details, add payment details and connect instantly with an online doctor or health practitioner. A licensed medical practitioner will speak with the patients during a telehealth appointment. They will diagnose the condition, and issue scripts, referrals, or medical certificates if approved. Some of the telehealth services offered by Hola Health include

Instantly connect to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7 for:

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  • General consults
  • New & repeat scripts
  • Referrals
  • Medical certificates
  • Mental health plans

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