What should be given to a child with malaria experiencing fever above 38°C?

In managing a child with malaria who has a fever above 38°C, it is recommended to administer paracetamol (acetaminophen). This medication is effective in reducing fever and is generally well tolerated by children. It works by acting on the hypothalamic heat-regulating center to lower body temperature, providing relief from discomfort associated with fever.

Paracetamol is preferred in children because it has a favorable safety profile and is less likely to cause gastrointestinal irritation than other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additionally, paracetamol does not affect platelet function, which is particularly important in patients with malaria due to the risk of bleeding complications.

Using medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen may pose risks in this scenario. Aspirin is not recommended for children due to the potential for Reye's syndrome, a serious condition that can cause liver damage and other complications. While ibuprofen can also reduce fever, it may not be the ideal choice given the susceptibility to bleeding and gastrointestinal complications in malaria cases. Codeine, being an opioid, is not appropriate for managing fever as it does not address fever reduction effectively and carries the risk of respiratory depression and other side effects.

Thus, paracetamol is the most appropriate choice for fever management in a