school age that comes and goes

Overview

A recurrent fever is when a child’s temperature goes up and down over time, often without a clear cause. In school-age children, it is usually because of repeated infections, but sometimes it can be a sign of another health problem.

Yes. Fevers are very common in school-age children, especially when they are exposed to many germs at school.

It affects children of school age, generally between 5 and 11 years old, but the same advice can apply to younger and older children.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F)
• Chills and shivering
• Sweating
• Feeling tired or achy
• Headache
• A runny nose, cough, or sore throat

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness and irritability
• Poor appetite
• Clinginess or wanting extra comfort
• Less energy than usual
• Sometimes a rash, ear pain, or stomach ache

Symptoms in older adults

• This article focuses on school-age children. Older adults can also have recurrent fevers, but the causes and warning signs are different, and they should talk to a healthcare provider.

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, such as colds, flu, and tummy bugs
• Bacterial infections, such as ear infections, tonsillitis, or urinary tract infections
• Some children get occasional high fevers without other symptoms, known as periodic fever syndromes (rare)
• Inflammatory conditions, such as juvenile arthritis (rare)

Risk factors

• Going to school, where germs spread easily
• Not being up to date on childhood vaccinations
• Having a weakened immune system
• Family history of recurrent fevers or periodic fever syndromes

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child has any of the emergency or urgent symptoms listed above
• If the fever is in a baby under 3 months old (but this article focuses on school-age children)
• If your child is very unwell, even if the temperature is not very high

Book a routine appointment if:

• If fevers keep coming back after your child has recovered
• If your child is missing a lot of school due to fevers
• If you are worried about your child’s health for any reason

Diagnosis

The doctor will start by asking you about your child’s fevers, including how high the temperature goes, how long it lasts, and whether it goes away completely between episodes. They will also examine your child.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test (a simple way to check for a urinary tract infection)
• Throat swab if a bacterial throat infection is suspected
• Blood tests to look for signs of infection, inflammation, or other conditions
• Sometimes imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or X-ray, if the doctor needs more information

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely reassure you if your child is otherwise well. If tests are done, you may not get answers right away. The doctor may ask you to keep a symptom diary and return for a follow-up appointment.

Treatment

Most fevers in school-age children are due to viral infections and will get better on their own. The focus is on keeping your child comfortable and watching for warning signs. If a bacterial infection or another condition is found, it will be treated specifically.

Self-care at home

• Encourage your child to rest, but they do not need to stay in bed all day
• Offer plenty of fluids, such as water, milk, or clear soups
• Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature
• You can give your child a fever-reducing medicine that is suitable for their age, but always check the label or ask your pharmacist for advice. Do not give aspirin to children.

Medical treatments

If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, a course of antibiotics may be prescribed. For conditions like periodic fever syndromes, the doctor may refer your child to a specialist. Always follow the treatment plan given by your child’s healthcare provider.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not usually needed for recurrent fevers. It would only be relevant if the fever is caused by a condition like recurrent tonsillitis that does not respond to other treatment, and even then, surgery is a last resort.

Living with this condition

Keep a simple fever diary. Write down the date, the highest temperature, any other symptoms, and how long the fever lasted. This can help you and your child’s doctor see a pattern.

Lifestyle tips

• Encourage regular handwashing at home and at school
• Make sure your child gets enough sleep
• If your child feels unwell, keep them home from school until they are better
• Try to reduce stress around schoolwork and social activities

Diet and exercise

A healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables helps keep the immune system strong. When your child is well, regular activity and outdoor play are great. During a fever, they may not want to exercise — that’s fine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Repeated fevers can be worrying for the whole family. It is normal to feel anxious or frustrated. It may also affect your child’s mood and school attendance. Talk to your child about how they feel, and let their school know what is happening.

Prevention

Not all fevers can be prevented, but good hygiene and staying up to date with vaccines can reduce the number of infections your child gets.

Vaccines

Make sure your child’s routine childhood vaccinations are up to date. There is no specific vaccine for recurring fevers, but vaccines protect against many infections that cause fever.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for recurrent fevers in children. If your child has recurring fevers, your healthcare provider may suggest tests to look for a cause.

Complications

If left untreated

• A serious bacterial infection could be missed if the fever is not evaluated
• A periodic fever syndrome or inflammatory condition could go undiagnosed and affect growth or joints
• Missing a lot of school can affect a child’s learning and social life

Long-term outlook

The outlook is generally very good. Most school-age children with recurrent fevers are healthy and grow out of it. With the right advice and treatment, your child can stay well and enjoy school.

Find support

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