Chills in children

Overview

Chills are feelings of coldness and shivering that often happen when the body's temperature is rising. In children, chills are usually a sign of an infection causing fever. The shivering helps the body generate heat to fight the infection.

Yes, chills are very common in children, especially during illnesses like colds, flu, and ear infections.

Chills can affect children of all ages, but they are more common in younger children whose immune systems are still developing.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Shivering or shaking
• Feeling cold even when the room is warm
• Goosebumps
• Teeth chattering

Symptoms in children

• All common symptoms plus irritability and fussiness
• Loss of appetite
• Pulling at ears (if ear infection is causing chills)
• Clinginess or crying more than usual

Symptoms in older adults

• Chills in older adults can be a sign of serious infections, but this article focuses on children.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections like the common cold, flu, or COVID-19
• Bacterial infections such as ear infections, throat infections, or urinary tract infections
• Reactions to vaccines (usually mild and short-lived)
• Less commonly, conditions like pneumonia or meningitis

Risk factors

• Young age (especially infants under 6 months)
• Attending daycare or school (more exposure to germs)
• Weakened immune system due to other health conditions
• Recent contact with someone who is sick

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Infant under 3 months with any fever (temperature of 100.4°F / 38°C or higher)
• Child with chills and stiff neck, severe headache, or trouble breathing
• Signs of dehydration (see above)

Book a routine appointment if:

• Mild chills with other cold symptoms that improve within a few days
• Child is older than 3 months and otherwise alert and drinking well

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam to look for signs of infection.

Tests that may be done

• Temperature check to confirm fever
• Examination of ears, throat, and chest
• Urine test if a urinary tract infection is suspected
• Blood test if a serious infection is possible

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will usually be able to tell if an infection is causing the chills. They may recommend home care or prescribe treatment if needed. Tests are only done when necessary.

Treatment

Treatment for chills depends on the underlying cause. The main goal is to treat the infection and make your child comfortable.

Self-care at home

• Keep your child well hydrated with water, breast milk, or formula
• Dress them in light clothing and use a light blanket if they feel cold
• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature
• Encourage rest and quiet activities
• Use fever-reducing medicine as recommended by your doctor (do not give aspirin to children)

Medical treatments

If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Viral infections usually do not require antibiotics. Treatment focuses on symptom relief. Always follow your doctor's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a treatment for chills. If chills are caused by a rare condition that requires surgery, your child's doctor will discuss that specifically.

Living with this condition

Most children recover from the illness causing chills within a few days. During this time, monitor their temperature and symptoms, and ensure they get plenty of rest and fluids.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your child home from school or daycare until they have been fever-free for 24 hours without medication
• Practice good hand hygiene to prevent spreading the infection to others
• Wash toys and surfaces that may have germs

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet can help recovery, but let your child rest as much as they need. Light activity is fine once they feel better.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Chills and illness can make children feel anxious or uncomfortable. Reassure them with calm words, cuddles, and comfort items.

Prevention

While you cannot always prevent chills, you can reduce the risk of infections that cause them.

Vaccines

Keeping your child up to date with routine vaccinations, including the flu vaccine, can help prevent some infections that cause chills.

Screening programmes

Screening is not routine for chills, but regular health check-ups can help catch underlying conditions early.

Complications

If left untreated

• Rarely, untreated bacterial infections can lead to more serious illnesses like pneumonia or sepsis
• Prolonged high fever can cause dehydration, which may require hospital treatment

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of children, chills are a temporary symptom that goes away as the infection clears. With proper care and treatment, children recover fully and have no lasting problems.

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