What counts as a fever?
A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is a fever. A digital thermometer under the arm, or in the mouth for older children, is reliable enough for home use. Forehead strips and touch are not accurate enough to decide on treatment.
Fever itself is not dangerous — it is the body’s way of fighting infection. The goal of treatment is to keep your child comfortable and drinking, not to bring the number down to normal.
Managing a fever at home
Keep your child in light clothing, offer fluids often, and let them rest. Paracetamol can be given for discomfort at the dose for their weight, not their age — check the strength on the bottle and ask us if you’re unsure.
Avoid cold sponging, and don’t alternate medicines unless your doctor advises it. Never give aspirin to children.
Warning signs that need a doctor today
Come in the same day if your child is under 3 months old with any fever, is unusually drowsy or hard to wake, is breathing fast, has a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed, refuses all fluids, or has had fever for more than 3 days.
During the monsoon, a fever with body ache, rash or vomiting should be checked for dengue.
What happens at the clinic
We check hydration, breathing, ears and throat, and only order blood tests when they’ll change what we do.
Antibiotics are prescribed only for bacterial infections. Most children need nothing more than rest, fluids and a clear plan for the next few days.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor the same day if you notice:
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months
- Unusual drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Fast or difficult breathing
- A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed
- Refusing all fluids, or no urine for 8 hours
- Fever lasting more than 3 days
In an emergency, call 108.
In my clinic, the question I hear most from parents is how high is too high. The honest answer is that the number matters less than how your child looks and behaves. A child who is playing between doses of paracetamol and drinking well is usually fighting a simple viral illness. A child who is listless, breathing fast or refusing fluids needs to be seen even if the temperature is modest. Trust your instinct as a parent: if something feels wrong, bring your child in, and we will examine them properly and explain what we find.
Frequently asked questions
About the author
MBBS, MD (Paediatrics) · 12 years’ experience · Reg. MMC 2013/07/2290
References
- Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management (NG143). NICE, 2021.
- Standard Treatment Guidelines: Fever in children. Indian Academy of Pediatrics.
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you’re worried about your health, see a doctor. In an emergency, call 108. Read our editorial policy.
