Hospitals are seeing a significant rise in patients with fevers that do not respond well to paracetamol, the commonly used fever reducer. Doctors say this is not because the medicine has become ineffective, but due to the more severe and prolonged nature of viral infections this season, combined with patients’ overall health conditions. Dr. Prashant Sinha, Head of Emergency at PSRI Hospital, explains that many viruses currently circulating cause intense fevers that paracetamol alone cannot fully control. Factors such as dehydration, malnutrition, incorrect dosing, or irregular intake can also reduce the drug’s effectiveness.
Experts warn that fevers caused by illnesses like dengue, flu, typhoid, or bacterial infections may persist despite paracetamol treatment. Since paracetamol mainly lowers fever by acting on the brain’s temperature regulation, it may only partially reduce fever caused by strong infections. Doctors advise seeking medical help if fever lasts more than 48 hours despite proper medication or if it rises above 102–103°F. Symptoms such as headache, chest pain, breathing difficulties, vomiting, rashes, abdominal pain, or extreme weakness should prompt immediate medical attention, especially in vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
Moreover, prolonged fever may indicate serious conditions such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections, making it important to identify the cause through tests like blood work, dengue or flu screening, and X-rays. If bacterial infection is detected, doctors may prescribe antibiotics, but self-medicating with such drugs is strongly discouraged. While paracetamol remains effective for mild fever, doctors stress that ignoring persistent or worsening fever can be dangerous. Early diagnosis and treatment, rather than relying solely on fever reducers, are crucial for recovery and can save lives.
