What is the easiest and safest way to break a fever on a 17 month old infant?

Shower: Giving a bath in tepid water (not cold) is the answer. You can give tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin as well if i want to "keep" fever down. Remember fever is the way to defend oneself from infection. It is not bad in itself. But if persistent or associated with pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or overall "sick appearance" when a febrile, then you should get it checked by your doctor.

Cold Bath: This is the easiest way, but you really should see a doctor. A fever of unknown cause can turn into something very dangerous very quickly. Call your pediatrician tonight or go to the er. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is an anti-pyretic but until you know why the baby has a fever, this is not safe or something i can recommend.

No cold baths!: To cool a hot house first turn down the thermostat then open the windows. Same with kids. Turn down the thermostat in the hypothalamus by giving Ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Place them in thin clothing & remove blankets. Ice baths are rarely needed & cause pain & anguish. But only break a high fever. Low grade fevers to 39 c. Help fight infection & are usually tolerated if you maintain hydration.

Comfort: The fever is the response to a challenge to the immune system, usually infection. It truly is broken when the challenge is gone. Treating it with anti pyretics such as acetominophen is mainly for comfort.Hydration and a luke warm bath may safely help.