Rest and drink plenty of fluids (water, oral rehydration solution, broth)
Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) as directed on the label
Use ibuprofen as directed on the label if age-appropriate and no contraindications
Keep the room comfortably cool; wear light clothing
Use a lukewarm sponge bath if needed (avoid cold baths and ice)
Change out of sweaty clothing and keep skin dry
Eat light, if hungry (soups, yogurt, toast, bananas)
Monitor temperature regularly and track symptoms
Seek urgent medical care if:
Trouble breathing, chest pain, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, fainting
Seizure
Signs of dehydration (very little urine, extreme weakness, dry mouth)
Fever in infants under 3 months (≥ 38.0°C / 100.4°F)
Fever ≥ 40.0°C / 104°F at any age
Fever lasting more than 3 days (adults) or more than 24–48 hours (children)
New rash, severe pain, or worsening symptoms
Contact a clinician promptly if you have chronic conditions (immunosuppression, cancer, kidney disease), are pregnant, or the fever follows recent travel or suspected serious infection
Avoid aspirin for children and teens
Avoid taking multiple fever medicines that contain the same active ingredient (especially acetaminophen)