The Febrile Effect in Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Investigation of Behavioral Improvements During Fever Episodes in Chinese Children

This study examined the prevalence and characteristics of behavioral improvements during fever in 157 Chinese children with ASD, finding that 16.56% of parents reported such improvements including reduced problem behaviors and enhanced social interaction. Children showing fever-related improvements had more severe baseline social deficits and higher autism severity scores, with most improvements being temporary rather than sustained.