Fever (also known as a high temperature) is one of the most common signs that the body is fighting an infection or another health condition1.
While most fevers resolve with appropriate care, some may indicate a more serious underlying problem that requires medical attention1. Therefore, understanding the causes, stages, treatment options, and warning signs of fever can help individuals manage symptoms appropriately and seek timely medical care when needed.
This blog explains what fever is, its common causes, the different stages of fever, available treatment approaches, and the red flags that should not be ignored.
A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature that occurs when the immune system responds to an infection, inflammation, or another health condition. It is important to understand that fever is not a disease itself but a sign that the body is actively working to protect and heal itself.
So, what actually happens inside the body? When germs such as viruses or bacteria enter the body, the immune system releases substances that help fight the infection. As part of this natural defence response, the body’s temperature is increased, creating an environment that can make it harder for some germs to survive and multiply1.
Interesting Fact: The hypothalamus is a small region in the brain that acts as the body’s thermostat. This regulates the increase in temperature during a fever1.
Body temperature can vary slightly from person to person and may fluctuate throughout the day. In general, a temperature above the normal range is considered a fever1,2.
| Category | Fever Temperature (°C) | Fever Temperature (°F) | Notes |
| Normal | 36.1 to 37.2°C | 97 to 99°F | Typical body temperature range |
| Low-grade Fever | 37.3 to 38.0°C | 99.1 to 100.4°F | Mild elevation |
| Moderate Fever | 38.1 to 39.0°C | 100.5 to 102.2°F | May need attention |
| High Fever | 39.1 to 41.0°C | 102.3 to 105.8°F | May cause considerable discomfort and should be monitored closely |
| Hyperpyrexia | Above 41.0°C | Above 105.8°F | Medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention |
Important points to remember:
Measuring body temperature with a thermometer is the most reliable way to confirm whether a person has a fever. There are two ways to check for a fever4,5.
Steps to record temperature:
Note: Mercury-containing glass thermometers are generally not recommended because they can break and release mercury, which is toxic. Electronic (digital) thermometers are preferred as they are safer, easier to use, and provide quick and accurate temperature readings4.
The symptoms of fever can vary depending on the underlying cause, the severity of the illness, and the person’s age. While an elevated body temperature is the hallmark sign, fever is often accompanied by a range of other symptoms as the body works to fight infection. Some common fever symptoms include1,7,8:
If an infant has a fever, you may observe fever symptoms like7,9:
Fever can occur for many reasons, but it most commonly occurs as a response to some kind of infection. However, it may also result from other underlying medical conditions. Some of the common causes of fever include:
Note: A fever that continues or comes back and for which no clear cause can be identified despite proper medical evaluation is known as a fever of unknown origin13.
Fevers can be classified based on how long they last and how they occur. The duration and pattern of a fever can sometimes provide clues about its underlying cause.
Based on duration, the types include14:
Based on pattern, the types include11:
Note: Any cause of acute fever can become persistent or chronic if it is not properly diagnosed and treated under medical guidance.
Most fevers follow a predictable pattern, progressing through different stages as the body’s immune system fights an infection. The stages are as follows:
The rising stage begins when the immune system detects an infection or another trigger and signals the body to raise its temperature. During this phase, the hypothalamus increases the body’s temperature set point, causing blood vessels in the skin to constrict and reducing heat loss. As a result, a person may experience chills or shivering15.
Practical tip: Wear light layers of clothing and stay hydrated, but avoid excessive layering of too many clothes, which may increase discomfort7.
During the peak stage, the body reaches and maintains its elevated temperature while actively fighting the underlying illness. The immune system remains highly active, and symptoms such as feeling hot, fatigue, and muscle aches are common1.
Practical tip: Rest as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration8.
The recovery stage begins when the underlying illness starts to improve, and the body’s temperature begins to return to normal. The hypothalamus lowers the temperature set point, and blood vessels in the skin dilate to release excess heat. This often leads to sweating as the body cools down1,15.
Practical tip: Continue drinking fluids and avoid strenuous activity until you feel fully recovered7.
Diagnostic tests may be needed when a fever is high, persists for several days, recurs frequently, is accompanied by concerning symptoms, or when the underlying cause is unclear. Based on your symptoms, your doctor may order:
Note: The primary goal of fever diagnosis is to identify and manage the underlying cause of the fever. This helps the doctor to guide the treatment.
Fever is typically managed depending on its underlying cause. While fever-reducing medications can help relieve discomfort, addressing the condition responsible for the fever is equally important. Here are some common fever treatment/management options:
If a fever continues or returns after receiving the proper therapy for a detected infection, an underlying non-infectious cause, such as an autoimmune or inflammatory disorder, cancer, or other illnesses, may be indicated. For treatment in these situations, a thorough clinical assessment and additional diagnostic testing may be necessary to identify the underlying reason first.
Note: Avoid self-medicating, especially with antibiotics or other prescription medications. You should always consult a doctor for the appropriate fever treatment.
A mild fever may sometimes be managed safely at home. The goal of home care is to improve comfort, avoid dehydration, and support the body’s natural recovery process rather than eliminate the fever completely. Here’s what you can do:
Note: Home care measures help improve comfort. They should not replace appropriate medical treatment aimed at identifying and managing the underlying cause of the fever.
Also Read: Why Do Headaches Happen? Common Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Some situations require prompt medical evaluation to identify and address potentially serious underlying conditions.
Consult a doctor if your child16:
Consult a doctor if you16:
Also Read: What Does It Mean When Fever Goes Away in a Day or Two
Fever is often a sign that the immune system is actively responding to an infection or other health challenge. In many cases, it can be monitored and managed safely at home with supportive care. However, it is important to stay alert for warning signs and seek medical attention when symptoms are severe, persistent, or concerning. This will help to recognize when to manage a fever and when to escalate care, which can help ensure timely treatment and better health outcomes.
Also Read: Types of Fever: Stages, Symptoms, Management Tips & More
Fever is typically divided into 3 stages: the rising stage, when body temperature begins to increase, and chills may occur; the peak stage, when the temperature remains elevated while the body fights the underlying illness; and the recovery stage, when the temperature returns to normal and symptoms gradually improve1,15.
Yes, a temperature of 102°F (38.9°C) is considered a moderate fever1.
A fever lasting four days is generally considered an acute fever, as it has been present for less than seven days14.
A fever becomes more concerning when it reaches very high levels (typically above 40°C or 104°F), persists despite management, or is accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, confusion, seizures, or a stiff neck1,16. In such cases, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Yes, many viral infections can cause fever for 3 to 5 days, and sometimes longer21. However, if the fever persists, worsens, or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, medical evaluation may be needed.
1. Balli S, Shumway KR, Sharan S. Physiology, Fever. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2026. Accessed June 12, 2026. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562334/
2. Body temperature norms: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Accessed June 12, 2026. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001982.htm
3. Barbi E, Marzuillo P, Neri E, Naviglio S, Krauss BS. Fever in Children: Pearls and Pitfalls. Children. 2017;4(9):81. doi:10.3390/children4090081 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28862659/
4. Temperature measurement: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Accessed June 18, 2026. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003400.htm
5. Australia H. Types of thermometer for fever. November 5, 2025. Accessed June 18, 2026. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer
6. Temperature: Digital and Glass Thermometers. Accessed June 18, 2026. https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/helping-hands/temperature-digital-and-glass-thermometers
7. Australia H. Fever. June 2, 2026. Accessed June 12, 2026. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever
8. Fever in adults. NHS inform. Accessed June 12, 2026. https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/fever-in-adults/
9. Fever in children. NHS inform. Accessed June 12, 2026. https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/fever-in-children/
10. Abdel Wahab MF, Younis TA, Fahmy IA, el Gindy IM. Parasitic infections presenting as prolonged fevers. J Egypt Soc Parasitol. 1996;26(2):509-516. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8754658/
11. Fever. Accessed June 12, 2026. https://medlineplus.gov/fever.html
12. Galloway J, Cope AP. The ying and yang of fever in rheumatic disease. Clin Med. 2015;15(3):288-291. doi:10.7861/clinmedicine.15-3-288 https://europepmc.org/article/pmc/4953116
13. Brown I, Finnigan NA. Fever of Unknown Origin. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2026. Accessed June 12, 2026. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532265/
14. Ogoina D. Fever, fever patterns and diseases called ‘fever’ – A review. J Infect Public Health. 2011;4(3):108-124. doi:10.1016/j.jiph.2011.05.002 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21843857/
15. El-Radhi AS. Pathogenesis of Fever. Clin Man Fever Child. Published online January 2, 2019:53-68. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-92336-9_3 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7122269/
16. Fever: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Accessed June 15, 2026. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003090.htm
17. Naito T, Mizooka M, Mitsumoto F, et al. Diagnostic workup for fever of unknown origin: a multicenter collaborative retrospective study. BMJ Open. 2013;3(12):e003971. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003971 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24362014/
18. Świerczyńska M, Mirowska-Guzel DM, Pindelska E. Antiviral Drugs in Influenza. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022;19(5):3018. doi:10.3390/ijerph19053018 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35270708/
19. Malaria. Accessed June 15, 2026. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/malaria
20. Gawronska J, Koyanagi A, López Sánchez GF, et al. The Prevalence and Indications of Intravenous Rehydration Therapy in Hospital Settings: A Systematic Review. Epidemiologia. 2022;4(1):18-32. doi:10.3390/epidemiologia4010002 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36648776/
21. El-Radhi AS. Fever in Common Infectious Diseases. Clin Man Fever Child. Published online January 2, 2019:85-140. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-92336-9_5 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7122655/
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Many dog owners feel worried when their pet suddenly becomes weak, develops a fever, and loses appetite. These signs, in many cases, are indicative of tick fever, which is a very common tick-borne disease in dogs. Tick fever is particularly common in warm and humid regions1.
Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that attach to animals and humans to feed on their blood. During feeding, they can transmit the organisms responsible for tick fever. Tick fever can weaken your dog’s immune system and, if left unaddressed, may lead to severe complications that can affect the internal organs2.
The good news is that with early diagnosis and proper care, most dogs recover well. In this article, we will read about tick fever in dogs, how dogs get infected, common symptoms, diagnosis, supportive care, recovery timelines, and tips on how to reduce the risk of tick infestation.
Tick fever is an umbrella term used for several infections spread by ticks, such as babesiosis and ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and in some regions, trypanosomiasis. It can become serious and potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Tick fever is caused by tick-borne pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, helminths, and protozoa. These infectious organisms may affect the dog’s immune system and blood cells1,3.
This condition is more common in tropical and subtropical climates, where ticks can thrive throughout the year. Usually, dogs that spend time outdoors, in kennels, parks, or grassy areas are at a higher risk of tick exposure. The brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) is among the most common vectors (carriers), capable of transmitting multiple pathogens and completing up to four generations per year in warm conditions1,4.
Ticks locate their hosts by sensing body heat, breathing patterns, body odour, moisture, and vibrations. Some tick species can also detect shadows. They usually position themselves along frequently used animal trails and wait for a suitable host to pass by5.
Unlike fleas, ticks cannot fly or jump. Instead, many species use a behaviour called “questing.” During questing, ticks cling to the tips of grass blades or shrubs using their back legs while stretching their front legs outward, ready to latch onto a passing animal5,6.
Once a dog or another host brushes against the vegetation, the tick quickly climbs onto the body. Some ticks attach to the skin immediately, while others may crawl around to find areas where the skin is thinner, such as around the ears, neck, or between the toes5,6.
Common symptoms of tick fever in dogs may include7:
Veterinarians diagnose tick fever based on the dog’s symptoms, history of tick exposure, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Common diagnostic methods include:
Note: Dog parents should avoid self-diagnosing or giving medications without professional guidance.
Tick fever in dogs is usually treated with antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian. The course of tick fever treatment in dogs may last for several weeks, depending on the severity of the illness and the type of tick-borne infection involved7,9.
The recovery time for dogs with tick fever can vary depending on several factors, including how early the disease is diagnosed, the severity of the infection, the type of tick-borne illness, and the dog’s overall health.
Most dogs begin to show improvement within a few days of starting treatment, with fever and weakness gradually reducing.
In addition to antibiotics, supportive care such as fluids and rest may also be needed to help the dog recover fully8.
Although it may not be possible to prevent tick exposure entirely, certain precautions can help reduce the risk. These include10,11:
You should seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows signs of tick fever, such as7:
You should also contact your veterinarian if:
Your veterinarian can recommend the right treatment and tick-control measures to keep your pet safe and healthy.
Also Read: Dog Skin Infection: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Home Care
Tick fever in dogs is a common tick-borne illness that may affect a dog’s energy levels, appetite, blood health, and overall well-being. Recognising early signs of tick fever and seeking timely veterinary guidance can make a significant difference in recovery.
Regular tick checks, proper grooming, and maintaining tick-control practices may help lower the chances of infection. If your dog appears unwell after tick exposure, it is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian as soon as possible.
Also Read: Why Do Dogs Vomit? Causes, Types, Treatment & Home Remedies
The duration of tick fever depends on the severity of the infection and how early treatment begins. Many dogs start improving within a few days of treatment; however, complete recovery may take several weeks8.
Most tick fever infections in dogs do not directly spread from dogs to humans. However, ticks themselves may carry organisms that can affect humans, so tick control is important10.
In some cases, tick fever can become serious if left unaddressed. It may affect the joints, eyes, and internal organs, and may lead to severe complications9. So, early diagnosis and management is essential for better recovery.
No, Lyme disease and tick fever are not exactly the same. Lyme disease is one specific tick-borne illness, while ‘tick fever’ is a general term used for several infections spread by ticks, such as ehrlichiosis and babesiosis12,13.
Early signs of tick fever may include fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, weakness, and reduced activity levels. Some dogs may also show pain or weight loss7.
Veterinarian-approved tick-control products such as tick sprays, spot-on treatments, medicated shampoos, and tick collars can help get rid of ticks quickly and help reduce further infestation8. However, it is very important not to use tick-control products meant for other animals on dogs14.
Yes. Ticks may enter homes through clothing, other pets, or outdoor exposure10.
Ticks should be removed carefully using proper methods. If unsure, consult a veterinarian or trained professional for safe removal10.
1. Ticks. Companion Animal Parasite Council. Accessed May 27, 2026. https://capcvet.org/guidelines/ticks/
2. Rocha SC, Velásquez CV, Aquib A, Al-Nazal A, Parveen N. Transmission Cycle of Tick-Borne Infections and Co-Infections, Animal Models and Diseases. Pathogens. 2022;11(11):1309. doi:10.3390/pathogens11111309. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36365060/
3. Kernif T, Medrouh B, Eddaikra N, Oury B, Holzmuller P, Sereno D. Ticks as vectors of Trypanosomatidae with medical or veterinary interest: Insights and implications from a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. Heliyon. 2024;10(24):e40895. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40895. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024169265
4. Dantas-Torres F. Biology and ecology of the brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Parasit Vectors. 2010;3:26. doi:10.1186/1756-3305-3-26. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20377860/
5. CDC. About Ticks and Tickborne Disease. Ticks. April 28, 2026. Accessed May 27, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/about/index.html
6. Leal B, Zamora E, Fuentes A, Thomas DB, Dearth RK. Questing by Tick Larvae (Acari: Ixodidae): A Review of the Influences That Affect Off-Host Survival. Ann Entomol Soc Am. 2020;113(6):425-438. doi:10.1093/aesa/saaa013. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33244354/
7. Government NT. Ehrlichiosis disease in dogs. January 14, 2025. Accessed May 11, 2026. https://nt.gov.au/industry/agriculture/livestock-and-animals/animal-health-and-diseases/ehrlichiosis-disease-dogs
8. Piccione J, Levine GJ, Duff CA, Kuhlman GM, Scott KD, Esteve‐Gassent MD. Tick‐Borne Relapsing Fever in Dogs. J Vet Intern Med. 2016;30(4):1222-1228. doi:10.1111/jvim.14363. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27353196/
9. Ehrlichiosis in Dogs: Fast Facts for Veterinarians. https://www.cdc.gov/ehrlichiosis/pdfs/fs-ehrlichiosisvet-508.pdf
10. CDC. Preventing Ticks on Pets. Ticks. May 17, 2024. Accessed May 11, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/prevention/preventing-ticks-on-pets.html
11. Medicine C for V. Fact Sheet for Pet Owners and Veterinarians about Potential Adverse Events Associated with Isoxazoline Flea and Tick Products. FDA. Published online August 8, 2023. Accessed June 16, 2026. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/fact-sheet-pet-owners-and-veterinarians-about-potential-adverse-events-associated-isoxazoline-flea
12. Skar GL, Blum MA, Simonsen KA. Lyme Disease. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2026. Accessed May 11, 2026. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431066/
13. Berrada ZL, Telford SR. Burden of Tick-borne Infections on American Companion Animals. Top Companion Anim Med. 2009;24(4):175-181. doi:10.1053/j.tcam.2009.06.005. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19945085/
14. US EPA O. Controlling Fleas and Ticks on Your Pet. March 27, 2013. Accessed May 11, 2026. https://www.epa.gov/pets/controlling-fleas-and-ticks-your-pet
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Fever is one of the body’s natural defence mechanisms, which signals that something is wrong in our body. Fever can happen due to infection, inflammation, or injury. When fever is caused by a virus, it is called viral fever. Our body raises its temperature as an immune response, which fights the virus in the body1,2. For unknown or unexplained fevers, especially short-term fevers, the cause is usually viral3.
Fever can be continuous or intermittent and might vary in pattern based on which virus is affecting you. In viral fever, although fever is the main symptom, other symptoms may also be present, depending on the virus. In this blog, we will discuss in detail the causes of viral fever, viral fever symptoms, and its treatment1,2.
Viral fever is an increase in body temperature caused by a virus entering our body. Viruses are extremely tiny microbes that can’t grow by themselves, so they enter living cells in our body and start replicating2,4,5.
Once the virus multiplies inside the cells, it releases substances that can harm the body and cause illness. Our immune system works to fight this virus by sending immune cells called macrophages to attack the virus and release certain proteins to stop the virus’s activity. This triggers an increase in body temperature, causing fever. The high temperature makes it hard for the virus to grow and helps the body fight the infection5,6.
A person is said to have a fever if their oral temperature is above 37.2°C in the early morning, or above 37.7°C at any time during the day1.
Fever is a common symptom in viral infections, with its severity varying by virus type and individual response. In the next section, we will see the different types of viruses causing different types of viral fever6.
Viral fevers can be caused by viruses from different families and can spread in many different ways, e.g., through the air, insect bites, contact with infected people, or contaminated water. Each type of virus can cause a different kind of illness in the body7.
The most common types of viral fever are:
Viral fevers may also affect the stomach (e.g., rotavirus), eyes (e.g., adenovirus), skin (e.g., measles virus), or even the brain (like Japanese encephalitis), causing different viral fever symptoms based on the type and severity of the infection7.
These viral fevers spread in different ways depending on the virus, which brings us to the next part – how are viral fevers transmitted?
Viral fevers spread through different modes, depending on the virus type.
Once the virus enters your body, it can trigger certain symptoms as part of your body’s natural response.
Viral fever often begins suddenly and presents with symptoms common to many infections. These include:
In some cases, viral fever symptoms can be more specific to a particular infection:
The exact symptoms of a viral infection depend on the type of virus and how your body responds to it13.
The duration of viral fever varies depending on the type of infection and your body’s immune response. Most viral fevers are self-limiting and last between 3 to 7 days.
Since most viral fevers resolve on their own, it’s important to know whether your fever is due to a virus or something more serious like a bacterial infection.
Viral and bacterial fevers may look similar at first, but they differ in symptoms, how long the fever lasts, and how they respond to antibiotics. Here is how to understand the difference:
| Feature | Viral Fever | Bacterial Fever |
| Symptoms | Viral fever often causes symptoms that involve many body parts, like cough body pain or tiredness17. | Bacterial fever usually causes symptoms in one area, like redness, swelling, or pain in a specific part17. |
| Duration | Most viral fevers last less than 7 days. | Bacterial fevers can last longer than 2 weeks if not treated. |
| Response to Antibiotics | Antibiotics do not work for viral fevers and should not be used 1,14. | Bacterial fevers usually improve with antibiotics1,14. |
| Blood Tests | CRP is usually at normal levels, and WBC count is normal or slightly raised2,16. | CRP and WBC are often high18. |
Not every fever requires immediate testing. Many uncomplicated viral fevers improve on their own within a few days with rest, adequate fluids, and symptom management. However, some situations may require medical evaluation and laboratory tests to identify the cause and rule out more serious infections.
| When to Consider Testing | When to Wait and Watch |
| Fever lasting more than 3–5 days | Fever for less than 3 days with mild symptoms |
| High fever (>39°C) or worsening symptoms | Mild cough, sore throat, runny nose, or body aches |
| Symptoms are not improving or are getting worse | Symptoms are improving day by day |
| Persistent vomiting, severe diarrhoea, or signs of dehydration | Able to eat, drink, and stay hydrated |
| Breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, or seizures | No breathing difficulty or warning signs |
| Recent travel, mosquito exposure, or contact with someone diagnosed with dengue, malaria, COVID-19, or another infectious illness | No recent travel to high-risk areas or known exposure |
Note: These are general guidelines only. The need for testing depends on factors such as age, underlying medical conditions, local disease patterns, and the severity of symptoms. If you are unsure, consult a healthcare professional.
Viral fever is diagnosed by the doctor by checking your viral fever symptoms, asking about your health history, and doing tests if necessary.
This structured approach can help the doctor to diagnose the viral fever, assess its severity, and plan the viral fever treatment. Since many infections can present with similar symptoms in the first few days, doctors may look for certain clues and investigations to identify the underlying cause of fever. The table below shows the common conditions that may present with symptoms similar to those seen in viral febrile illnesses, along with their symptoms and diagnostic tests.
| Condition | Symptoms | Common Tests |
| Dengue | High fever, severe body aches, headache behind the eyes, rash, low platelet count, and bleeding tendencies | Dengue NS1 antigen, Dengue IgM/IgG, Complete Blood Count (CBC) |
| Malaria | Fever with chills and rigors, excessive sweating, travel to or residence in a malaria-endemic area | Peripheral blood smear, Rapid Malaria Antigen Test |
| Typhoid Fever | Persistent fever, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea or constipation, loss of appetite | Blood culture, Typhoid IgM tests (where appropriate) |
| COVID-19 | Fever with cough, sore throat, loss of smell or taste, breathing difficulty, recent exposure to an infected person | Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), RT-PCR |
| Influenza (H3N2/Flu) | Sudden onset fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, seasonal outbreaks | Clinical evaluation, Influenza RT-PCR or antigen test when indicated |
Depending on your symptoms, medical history, travel history, and local disease patterns, your doctor may recommend one or more of these tests before confirming a diagnosis of viral fever.
Your doctor may give medicines based on your symptoms and the type of viral fever. Although viral fever may get better by itself, it is important to manage the symptoms and take good care of the body for faster recovery.
One important thing I would everyone to follow is to avoid consumption of common Antibiotics like Augmentin, Azithromycin etc without consulting their doctor in suspicion of viral infections like flu. which is much more common as compared to bacterial infections. Viral infections are usually self limiting and patients symptoms start resolving within one week. Consuming antibiotics when not needed is only contributing to resistance which is a major concern especially in India.
Dr. Kathak Shah, MBBS, DDV, Fellowship in Lasers & Aesthetics, Fellowship in Dermatosurgery
When you have viral fever, it’s better to eat soft foods that are easy to digest. Your diet should include:
Examples:
Make sure you get enough rest and keep yourself well-hydrated by drinking a lot of fluids19.
Staying hydrated is one of the most important parts of recovery from viral fever, as fever can increase fluid loss through sweating and reduced appetite. Aim to drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Good options include water, oral rehydration solution (ORS), coconut water, lemon water, clear soups, and other non-caffeinated fluids. Seek medical attention if you develop signs of dehydration such as dizziness, extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, or dark-coloured urine28.
Also Read: Vaccination: What It Is, How It Works, and Why It Matters
Viral fever usually gets better with proper rest and taking plenty of fluids along with medicine as per the doctor’s advice. But in some cases, it can lead to complications like dehydration, long-lasting tiredness, breathing trouble, low platelets (like in dengue), or sometimes the heart or brain may also be affected. If the fever doesn’t settle in 3–4 days or new symptoms appear, you should see the doctor without delay.
Post viral arthralgia is a condition with pain in multiple joints such as shoulder, wrist, small joints of fingers, knees, ankles etc. It is a very common complication occurring after weeks to months of viral infection and its treatment. It is very important to consult a physician in such case and give proper history of your viral illness in the past so appropriate treatment can be initiated26.
Dr. Kathak Shah, MBBS, DDV, Fellowship in Lasers & Aesthetics, Fellowship in Dermatosurgery
If you have viral fever and experience these symptoms, you need to see a doctor immediately:
For children, take them to the hospital quickly if they:
Viral fever can spread easily, but by taking a few simple steps, you can protect yourself and others from getting sick.
Also Read: Home Remedies For Viral Fever
Viral fever is usually mild and goes away with proper rest and fluids in most people. However, sometimes it can become serious and needs medical attention. By addressing the symptoms early and getting viral fever treatment, the recovery is faster. Also, follow proper hygiene, get vaccinated, and follow the prevention steps to keep yourself safe from viral fever.
Also Read: 8 Preventive Measures for Dengue That are Simple & Effective
Once your symptoms improve and you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication, it’s best to avoid close contact with others for another 5 days, as you may still be contagious24.
People who are very old, very young (like babies and small children), have weak immunity, or are pregnant, are more likely to get very sick if they catch a viral fever25.
Yes, some children can have a seizure when the body temperature rises quickly during a viral fever. This may happen in children who are 6 months to 6 years old.
No, this will make you feel more uncomfortable. Wear light cotton clothes and don’t use heavy bedding as it can make your body heat up more. Keep the room at a normal cool temperature21.
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