Fever in Kids: A Parent's Guide to When to Worry and When to Wait

As a parent, seeing your child's temperature rise can be one of the most worrying moments. However, it's helpful to remember that fever is not an illness in itself. It is a sign that your child's body is actively fighting off an infection, usually a viral or bacterial one. Understanding what a fever means and how to manage it can help you care for your child with confidence.

What is Considered a Fever in Children?

A fever is generally defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38 °C) or higher. The most accurate readings are often taken rectally (for infants) or orally/aurally (ear) for older children, though a temporal (forehead) or axillary (armpit) reading can give a useful quick check. Axillary (armpit) can be preferred at home for temperature recording.

It's important to focus on how your child looks and acts, rather than just the number on the thermometer. A child with a slightly elevated temperature who is alert and playing may need less intervention than a child with a lower fever who is lethargic or irritable.

Recognizing Child Fever Symptoms

Besides the high temperature, common symptoms that accompany a fever can include:

• Feeling warm or hot to the touch.
• Flushed or red skin.
• Chills or shivering.
• Sweating.
• Irritability or unusual fussiness.
• Reduced appetite and/or decreased activity.
• Headache or body aches.

Paediatric Guidance: Home Care and Precautions

The goal of home care is to keep your child comfortable and prevent dehydration, rather than forcing the temperature down to a specific number.

1. Focus on Hydration

Fever can lead to fluid loss, so offering plenty of fluids is essential.

• Offer frequent small sips of water, oral rehydration solutions, diluted juice, or popsicles.
• For infants, offer extra breastfeeds or formula feeds.
• Tip: If your child is refusing food, don't worry—getting fluids in is the priority.

2. Light Clothing and Environment

• Dress your child in lightweight clothing and use a light blanket or sheet. Over-bundling can trap heat and raise the temperature further.
• Keep the room temperature cool and comfortable, but avoid making it too cold, which can cause shivering (shivering can actually raise the body temperature).

3. Rest

• Encourage your child to rest and limit strenuous activity.
• There's no need to wake a sleeping child to give medication unless specifically instructed by a doctor.

When to Consult a Doctor Immediately

• Symptoms persisting for more than three days
• Temperature above 104° F
• Breathing much faster than usual
• Repeated vomiting
• Reduced activities
• Child doesn't eat or drink much
• Doesn't pass much urine