Probiotic Mixture Could Reduce Fever Duration in Children with URTIs

UPPER respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are a common cause of fever in children, leading to frequent healthcare visits. Probiotics have been suggested as a potential treatment to shorten fever duration, but evidence remains limited. A recent study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a probiotic mixture, including Bifidobacterium breve M-16V, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, in reducing fever duration in children with URTIs. The trial found that children treated with probiotics experienced a significant reduction in fever duration, with the probiotic group having a shorter fever duration than the placebo group of 2 days on average

The randomised clinical trial was conducted between November 2021 and June 2023 and included 128 children aged between 28 days and 4 years, who presented with fever (rectal temperature ≥38.5 °C) and URTI. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of 0.5 mL or 1.5 g of probiotic mixture or a placebo daily for 14 days. Fever duration was the primary outcome, defined as the time from the first to the last day of fever. Secondary outcomes included adverse effects and the need for antibiotic prescriptions.

Results showed that the probiotic group had a decreased median fever duration of 3 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 2-4 days), while the placebo group had a median of 5 days (IQR: 4-6 days). The difference was statistically significant, with a risk ratio of 0.64 (95% CI: 0.51-0.80). On the other hand, researchers observed no significant difference between the two groups for mild adverse effects, including abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhoea. Furthermore, no significant difference in prescription of antibiotics between groups was seen.

While the study provides promising evidence, there are some limitations to consider. The trial did not differentiate between bacterial and viral infections, and temperature measurements were caregiver-reported, which could introduce some variability. Additionally, the study was conducted in a single centre, limiting the generalisability of the findings. Considering these limitations, further research may look to investigate individual infectious diseases, such as influenza, or include a greater sample size to better understand the implications of using a probiotic mix as an intervention for URTI-related fever in children.

Bertie Pearcey, EMJ

Reference

Bettocchi, S et el. Probiotics and Fever Duration in Children With Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2025; DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.0669