Microbiology 9th Edition by Laura Black, Jacquelyn Black

Exercise 15

Kim, a new mother, had heard that babies can suddenly develop high fevers, which are dangerous. Her 6-month-old son had symptoms of a mild respiratory infection but was resting peacefully in his crib. Imagine her surprise when, upon taking his temperature, she found it to be 106°F, or 41.2°C. She won dered if she should call the pediatrician, given that her son did not seem to be in any distress. Based on the information in this chapter, what could you tell Kim about the dangers of fevers over 40°C