When children get infections, they may experience a high temperature or fever. Discover the signs, symptoms, causes, and when it’s necessary to seek medical help.
A high temperature in a baby or child can be worrying, but it’s the body’s natural defense against infections like coughs or colds (NHS, 2024a). Parents or caregivers who know the child well should trust their instincts, especially if there are signs of a more serious condition like sepsis.
If something doesn’t feel right, especially with a young baby, contact the GP or call NHS 111 right away.
It’s important to monitor your child’s temperature regularly and ensure they are staying hydrated. You can try giving them paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce their fever, but always follow the recommended dosage for their age and weight.
If your child’s high temperature persists for more than a few days, or if they are showing other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a rash, or persistent vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.
What is a high temperature or fever?
Normal temperatures vary among babies (NHS, 2024a). Being aware of their usual temperature when they’re healthy can help in recognizing when they are unwell.
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is considered high in children and typically lasts for less than four days (NHS, 2024a). It’s crucial to contact the GP or 111 urgently if a baby under three months has a temperature of 38°C or more.
How to tell if a baby is unwell
Signs in babies may include feeling unwell, being hotter than usual, and sweating. Use a digital thermometer under the armpit to accurately check for fever.
When do they need medical help?
If a baby under three months has a temperature of 38°C or more, or over 39°C for babies aged three to six months, seek medical advice. Other signs requiring immediate attention include a fever lasting more than five days or signs of dehydration.
Call 999 or go to the Emergency Department if a baby shows certain symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed.
Access Mini First Aid videos through NCT Antenatal courses for more information on how to respond to common medical emergencies in babies.
How to take a baby’s temperature (NHS, 2024a; NICE, 2019)
- For children under five, it’s best to take their temperature under the armpit and wait until the reading is ready.
- After taking the temperature, make a note of the reading.
What to do if a baby has a high temperature
Mild fevers in children can be managed at home by ensuring they drink plenty of fluids, monitoring their food intake, keeping a close eye on them, and giving appropriate medication if necessary. Avoid overdressing them or sponging them with cool water.
Refer to our article on caring for a sick baby at home for more details.
What medicines can babies have?
Infant paracetamol and ibuprofen can provide relief to distressed babies. Consult a pharmacist or GP for guidance, especially if specific conditions are present.
Medications prescribed for children under 16 are free of charge.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are not effective for treating viral infections that cause fever in babies. Always finish the prescribed course of antibiotics for bacterial infections to prevent resistance.
What is a febrile seizure?
High temperatures in babies can result in febrile seizures. While these seizures are unlikely to cause long-term harm, immediate medical attention is necessary in certain situations.
Follow specific guidelines in case a child experiences a febrile seizure.
Common symptoms of a febrile seizure include:
- Rapid eye movements or staring
- Loss of consciousness or awareness
- Jerking movements of the arms and legs
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
If your child experiences a febrile seizure, stay calm and do the following:
- Protect the child from injury by moving any nearby objects away.
- Lay the child on their side to prevent choking on saliva or vomit.
- Time the seizure and call for emergency medical help if it lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- After the seizure, keep the child comfortable and monitor their temperature.
Remember, most febrile seizures are harmless and do not indicate a serious underlying condition. However, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the cause of the fever and prevent future seizures.
Signs of dehydration in a baby
Fever can lead to dehydration in babies and children. Learn about the signs of dehydration in children.
Receive guidance from healthdirect Australia, a service that offers access to nurses or doctors for assistance.
If your baby under 3 months has a fever above 38°C, head to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
Key facts
- Fevers are common in children and are usually associated with viral infections.
- Most children with a fever can be managed at home.
- Children under 3 months with a fever require urgent medical attention.
- It’s important to monitor a child’s temperature regularly when they have a fever.
- Encourage the child to rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- If a child’s fever is persistently high or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seek medical advice.
What is a fever?
Fevers of 38°C or higher in children are common and can generally be handled at home.
Read more about fever in babies.
In addition to the physical symptoms mentioned, fever in children can also cause irritability, difficulty sleeping, and general malaise. It is important to monitor the child’s temperature regularly and seek medical attention if the fever is persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
It is recommended to keep the child hydrated and comfortable by dressing them in lightweight clothing, offering plenty of fluids, and using fever-reducing medications as directed by a healthcare provider.
Remember that a fever is the body’s natural response to an infection and is usually not harmful. However, if you are unsure about how to manage your child’s fever or if it persists for more than a few days, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
What causes fever in children?
Fever is often the body’s response to infections, with viral infections being the primary cause in children. Other causes can include bacterial infections, vaccinations, inflammatory conditions, or issues with the immune system.
Teething does not typically cause fevers.
In some cases, fever can also be a result of environmental factors such as overheating, dehydration, or a reaction to certain medications. It’s important for parents to monitor their child’s fever and seek medical attention if it persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
How is the cause of fever in children diagnosed?
During a medical consultation, expect questions about your child’s symptoms and recent health status. Be ready to provide information about their eating and drinking habits.
- Your child’s overall health, recent travel, exposure to infections, medications, childhood vaccinations
The doctor will assess your child and take their temperature. In some cases, tests may be recommended.
Prepare for your appointment by using the Question Builder.
When should I take my child to see a doctor?
If your child:
- Shows signs of illness, is vomiting, has a rash, fever over 40 degrees
- Experiences febrile convulsions, ongoing headaches or abdominal pain
- Is sensitive to light or has a bulging fontanelle
- Has had a fever for more than 2 days, seems to be getting worse, or has been in contact with serious infections
When to seek urgent care
If your child’s immune system is compromised and they have a fever over 38°C, seek immediate medical attention.
For a baby under 3 months old with a fever over 38°C, head to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 000 for an ambulance.
Contact emergency services if your child is drowsy, has breathing difficulties, or a stiff neck.
Use the Service Finder to locate health services.
How is fever in children treated?
Most fevers in children are not serious and can be managed at home, but severe cases may require hospital treatment.
Children with bacterial infections may need antibiotics.
Self-care at home
To comfort your child with fever:
- Dress them lightly and keep them cool
- Offer cool, clear fluids
- Keep the room comfortable
- Gently wipe their forehead
Avoid cold baths. Make sure they stay hydrated to prevent dehydration.
Medicines for fever in children
Medications are not always necessary for fever unless the child is in pain.
Paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used to alleviate pain and fever in appropriate doses.
Do not give aspirin to children under 16.
What are the complications of fever in children?
Fevers can trigger seizures in young children, known as febrile seizures.
While most febrile seizures are not harmful, they require medical evaluation. Addressing the underlying cause of the fever is crucial.
Can fever be prevented?
Prevent infections in children by:
- Covering sneezes and coughs, avoiding sharing items, staying home when sick
- Ensuring childhood vaccinations are up to date
Resources and Support
Find information on childhood fever from the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network. Call 1800 022 222 for the healthdirect helpline.
Fever is an increase in body temperature due to infections, triggered by the immune system.
Most fevers are not severe and can resolve on their own. Seek medical attention for persistent or high fevers.
Additional tips for managing fever:
- Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- Rest and get plenty of sleep
- Use over-the-counter fever-reducing medications if necessary
- Dress lightly and keep the room temperature comfortable
- Monitor the fever closely, especially in young children
Symptoms of fever
Symptoms of fever include feeling unwell, hot, sweaty, shivering, flushed. In addition to these common symptoms, individuals may also experience muscle aches, loss of appetite, fatigue, and headache. Fever can also be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause, such as cough, sore throat, or nasal congestion.
Infection is usually the cause of fever
Fevers are usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, chronic illnesses, tropical diseases, or medications.
Self-treatment suggestions for fever
Treat fever by taking medications, drinking fluids, sponging skin, resting, and avoiding alcohol or cold baths.
When to see your doctor for fever symptoms
Consult your doctor if fever persists, is very high, or accompanied by severe symptoms. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following additional symptoms along with a fever:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Severe headache
- Confusion or changes in mental status
- Stiff neck
- Rash
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical care.
When to seek immediate urgent medical attention
Seek immediate medical help for fever with headache and stiff neck, or rash that does not blanche.
Diagnosis methods
If the cause of the fever is unclear, tests may be needed to start specific treatment.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Antibiotics are not effective for viral fevers.
Fever in children
On average, children experience up to 10 infections annually. Body temperature may not always accurately indicate illness in young children.
If your child is six months or younger and exhibits certain symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. If you feel concerned at any point, seek advice from your doctor.
Using a thermometer
If you suspect your child has a fever, use a thermometer to measure their temperature. Body temperature is best used as a guide rather than a reliable indicator of illness in babies and young children. Reliable thermometers can be obtained from a pharmacy with instructions on how to use them. If unsure, ask your pharmacist for assistance.
Treatment for fever in children
- Dress your child in light clothing.
- Provide clear fluid drinks like water.
- Keep your child cool.
- Give paracetamol in the correct dose for the child’s age (not more than 4 doses in 24 hours), but seek advice if using for more than 24 hours.
- Consult your doctor if your child is 3 months or younger.
- Avoid giving your child a cold bath.
Fever can cause convulsions
< h2 >Febrile Convulsions in Babies and Children < p >Febrile convulsions are episodes of seizures that can occur in infants and young kids when they have a high fever due to an ear infection or upper respiratory infection. It is different from epilepsy and does not result in any harm to the brain. Signs of febrile convulsions include loss of consciousness, twitching or jerking of the arms and legs, difficulty in breathing, foaming at the mouth, turning pale or bluish, rolling of the eyes, and taking around 15 minutes to fully regain consciousness. While febrile convulsions are usually not severe, it is important to remain calm and seek medical assistance if necessary.