What is the most common cause of febrile seizures?

A febrile seizure is a convulsion associated with fever, not usually a sign that the child has epilepsy. Viral infections, including influenza, can cause the fever. During an episode, the child may stiffen, jerk, lose awareness, or become sleepy afterwards. The event can be frightening, and the seizure may begin before the fever is recognised. A clinician should assess a first seizure to confirm the likely cause and check for other infections.

Place the child on a safe surface on their side, remove nearby objects, loosen tight clothing, and note when the seizure starts. Do not restrain the movements, put anything in the mouth, or give food, drink, or medicine during the seizure. Once the movements stop, stay with the child and arrange medical assessment, particularly after a first episode.

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, affects only one side, repeats without the child recovering, or the child has trouble breathing. Emergency help is also needed for a stiff neck, a spreading rash, severe illness, or ongoing unresponsiveness. Seek prompt review for any first seizure or a child younger than six months.

Ask what infection may have caused the fever, how to measure temperature, whether a rescue medicine is appropriate, and what action plan to follow if another seizure occurs. Share the seizure duration, movements, recovery, medicines, and recent symptoms.