Fever in Children

Overview

A fever in children is a temporary rise in body temperature, usually in response to an infection. It is the body's natural way of fighting germs and is generally not harmful.

Yes, fever is one of the most common reasons parents seek medical advice for their child. Almost every child will have a fever at some point.

Fever can affect children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. It is especially common in young children under 5 years old because their immune systems are still developing.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• Feeling hot to touch
• Chills or shivering
• Sweating
• Flushed cheeks

Symptoms in children

• Irritability or fussiness
• Clinginess or wanting more cuddles
• Poor appetite or not feeding well
• Sleeping more than usual or trouble sleeping
• Crying more than normal

Symptoms in older adults

• Fever in older children and teenagers may cause headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. They can describe how they feel more clearly.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections such as colds, flu, chickenpox, or roseola
• Bacterial infections like ear infections, urinary tract infections, or strep throat
• Recent vaccinations (a mild fever can be a normal response)
• Teething in babies (usually a low-grade fever below 100.4°F/38°C)

Risk factors

• Young age, especially under 2 years
• Attending daycare or school (more exposure to germs)
• Weakened immune system due to illness or medication
• Not being up to date with vaccinations

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child is under 3 months with any fever
• If your child has a fever and seems very unwell, is limp, or is not feeding
• If your child has a seizure or difficulty breathing

Book a routine appointment if:

• If the fever lasts more than 3 days in an otherwise well child
• If you are worried about your child's symptoms and they are not improving
• If your child has a fever and a known underlying health condition

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will take your child's temperature and ask about their symptoms, when the fever started, and whether they have been around anyone who is sick. They will also examine your child's ears, throat, chest, and abdomen to look for signs of infection.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test (to check for a urinary tract infection)
• Blood test (if a serious bacterial infection is suspected)
• Throat swab (if strep throat is possible)
• Chest X-ray (if a lung infection like pneumonia is suspected)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what they think might be causing the fever and give you advice on how to care for your child at home. In most cases, no specific treatment is needed for the fever itself. If tests are done, results usually come back within a day or two.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on making your child comfortable and managing the underlying cause. Most fevers do not need medicine. If your child is uncomfortable, medicines that reduce fever can help, but always follow dosing instructions for your child's weight and age. Never give aspirin to a child.

Self-care at home

• Keep your child cool by dressing them in light clothing and keeping the room at a comfortable temperature
• Encourage them to drink plenty of fluids like water, milk, or oral rehydration solution
• Let them rest as much as they need
• Offer small, frequent meals if they are eating
• Use a cool (not cold) cloth on their forehead if they seem uncomfortable

Medical treatments

If a bacterial infection is found, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Viral infections do not respond to antibiotics and usually clear on their own. Fever-reducing medicines can be given as directed by a doctor or pharmacist to lower a high fever and help your child feel better, but these do not treat the underlying infection.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat fever. In rare cases, if an infection like an abscess requires drainage, a minor procedure may be needed.

Living with this condition

While your child has a fever, monitor their temperature and comfort. Offer fluids frequently and check for signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet nappies. Do not wake a sleeping child to take their temperature unless advised by a doctor. Keep them home from school or daycare until they are fever-free for 24 hours (without medication) and feel well enough to return.

Lifestyle tips

• Wash hands often to prevent spreading germs to others
• Clean toys and surfaces regularly
• Teach your child to cough and sneeze into their elbow or a tissue

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for fever, but make sure your child has plenty to drink. If they are hungry, offer light foods like toast, soup, or fruit. Avoid strenuous activity until they are fully recovered.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a child with fever can be stressful for parents. It is normal to feel worried. Remember that most fevers in children are harmless and part of growing up. Take breaks if you can and ask for help from family or friends.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent fever, but you can reduce the risk of infections that cause fever. Good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick people help. Keeping your child up to date with vaccinations is one of the best ways to prevent serious infections.

Vaccines

Routine childhood vaccines protect against illnesses like measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, and pertussis, which can cause fever. Talk to your doctor about your child's vaccination schedule.

Screening programmes

No specific screening is needed for fever. If your child has frequent or unexplained fevers, your doctor may look for underlying conditions.

Complications

If left untreated

• Febrile seizures – these can be frightening but are usually harmless and do not cause lasting damage
• Dehydration if your child does not drink enough
• The underlying infection can become more serious if not treated, such as a urinary tract infection spreading to the kidneys

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with fever is excellent. Over 95% of fevers are caused by mild viral infections that get better on their own. Even when a fever is caused by a bacterial infection, prompt treatment leads to full recovery. Febrile seizures do not cause brain damage, and children usually grow out of them by age 5. With supportive care, most children are back to their usual selves within a few days.

Find support

International organisations

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Fever in Children ↗

Local organisations

• NHS – Fever in Children ↗ · United Kingdom
• Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) ↗ · United Kingdom
• Healthline – Fever in Children ↗ · International

Helplines

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.