Fevers are a common symptom in childhood. Many parents are frightened when their child has a fever when, in fact, it is one of the most powerful defense mechanisms we have against disease and infection. A fever activates the immune system. In many cases a fever strengthens the immune system and helps to prevent susceptibility to other illnesses later in life.
When an infection develops, the body responds by making additional white blood cells. These cells fight infection by destroying the bacteria and viruses then removing the dead tissue.
