Ask HN: Why Do We Fight Fevers?

2 pointsgentleman116 comments

Fevers are supposed to help us to fight infections. However, we normally take medications to reduce or remove the fevers when able.

If somebody catches Covid-19, why or why not attempt to reduce fevers?

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Fevers beyond a certain temperature damage the body almost as much as they damage the virus or bacteria. They can even cause brain damage or death.

For bacterial infections that we can treat with antibiotics, it's often worthwhile to just skip the fever entirely. For viral infections, the goal is to keep the fever at a level that the body can more reasonably recover from.

Are you a doctor?

Are you?

No, and I'm also not one to give medical advice on internet forums.

Fair enough.

Disclaimer: The above is not medical advice. If you have a fever, ask a doctor what to do.

the french health minister recommendation is to not take ibuprofene against covid 19 as it hinders the inflammation response of the body against the disease:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/14/anti-inflammat...

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