Fever in children

Overview

Fever is when your child’s body temperature goes above normal. It is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. A normal temperature is about 37°C (98.6°F). A fever is generally considered to be 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.

Yes, fever is very common in children. Most children will have several fevers during their early years, especially when they start school or daycare.

Fever can affect any child, but it is most common in children under 5 years old. It happens when their immune system is still developing and they are exposed to many new germs.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• High body temperature (38°C or higher)
• Chills and shivering
• Sweating
• Feeling hot or cold
• Headache
• Muscle aches

Symptoms in children

• Irritability or fussiness
• Poor feeding or loss of appetite
• Sleeping more than usual
• Crying more than usual
• Feeling warm to the touch

Symptoms in older adults

• This article focuses on children. In older adults, fever may cause confusion, weakness, or a drop in blood pressure. Always consult a doctor if an older adult has a fever.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections (like colds, flu, or chickenpox)
• Bacterial infections (like ear infections, strep throat, or urinary tract infections)
• Teething (may cause a slight rise in temperature, but not a true fever)
• Immunizations (vaccines can sometimes cause a mild fever)
• Overheating from too many clothes or a hot environment

Risk factors

• Young age (especially under 2 years)
• Weakened immune system due to illness or medication
• Not being fully vaccinated
• Recent travel to areas with certain infections
• Exposure to other sick children (e.g., at daycare or school)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• For any fever in a baby under 3 months old, call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.
• If your child has a fever and any of the emergency signs listed above, call emergency services.
• If your child has a fever and is very drowsy, not drinking, or has a rash, seek urgent care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child has a fever that lasts more than 3 days in a child over 6 months old, schedule a doctor’s visit.
• If you are worried about your child’s symptoms, even if they seem mild, it’s always okay to seek advice.

Diagnosis

A doctor will take your child’s temperature and ask about symptoms and medical history. They may also do a physical exam to check for signs of infection.

Tests that may be done

• Temperature measurement (using a digital thermometer, usually under the arm or in the ear)
• Blood tests (to look for signs of infection or inflammation)
• Urine test (to check for a urinary tract infection)
• Throat swab or other swabs (if a specific infection is suspected)
• Chest X-ray (if a lung infection like pneumonia is possible)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask questions about when the fever started, how high it got, and what other symptoms your child has. They may also ask about vaccinations, recent travel, and any medications your child is taking. Be ready to share your concerns. The doctor will explain what tests, if any, are needed and how to care for your child at home.

Treatment

Most fevers do not need medical treatment and can be managed at home. Treatment focuses on making your child comfortable and watching for signs of serious illness. If an infection is found, the doctor may prescribe specific treatment for that infection.

Self-care at home

• Offer plenty of fluids (water, breast milk, formula, or oral rehydration solutions) to prevent dehydration.
• Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
• Let your child rest as much as they need.
• You can use a cool, damp cloth on your child’s forehead to help them feel better, but do not use ice or cold baths.
• Monitor your child’s temperature and symptoms. If you are worried, contact your doctor.

Medical treatments

If your child is uncomfortable, a doctor or pharmacist may recommend a fever-reducing medicine. These are usually given by mouth and come in forms like liquid or tablets. Always follow the instructions for your child’s age and weight. Never give aspirin to a child under 16 years old unless a doctor specifically says it is safe. If a bacterial infection is found, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics do not work for viral infections.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for fever. Fever is a symptom, not a disease. If a serious infection requires surgery (like an abscess), that would be treated separately.

Living with this condition

When your child has a fever, you will need to check their temperature regularly and watch for any changes. Keep them comfortable, hydrated, and rested. Most children recover within a few days. You can continue normal activities once the fever is gone and your child feels better.

Lifestyle tips

• Encourage handwashing to prevent spreading germs to others.
• Keep your child home from school or daycare until the fever is gone for at least 24 hours (without fever-reducing medicine).
• Avoid giving your child too many layers of clothing or blankets.
• Make sure they get plenty of sleep.

Diet and exercise

Your child may not feel like eating much. Offer light, easy-to-digest foods like soup, toast, or rice. Do not force them to eat. Once they recover, they can return to their normal diet and activities. Avoid intense exercise until they are fully better.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a child with a fever can be stressful for parents. It is normal to feel worried or anxious. Remember that most fevers are not harmful. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned. Look after your own health too.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent a fever, because it is a response to infection. However, you can reduce the chance of infections that cause fever.

Vaccines

Many infections that cause fever can be prevented by vaccines. Make sure your child gets all recommended vaccinations on schedule. This includes vaccines for flu, measles, chickenpox, and pneumococcal disease.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for fever. Screening is not needed because fever is a symptom, not a condition.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration (not enough fluids in the body)
• Febrile seizures (a seizure caused by fever in young children – usually harmless but scary)
• Rarely, the underlying infection can become serious if not treated (like pneumonia or meningitis)

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with fever is very good. Almost all children recover fully without any lasting effects. With proper care and attention, most fevers go away on their own. Even febrile seizures do not cause long-term harm. Trust your instincts – if you are worried, seek medical help.

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