When your body temperature is higher than normal due to infections or other illnesses, it results in a fever. However, resting and staying hydrated can help alleviate it.

Body temperature varies from person to person and usually increases during the day. A fever is considered to be present at or above 100.4˚F (38˚C).

Fevers are often a sign of the body fighting infections, but they can also be caused by vaccines, overheating, or severe sunburn. In most cases, fevers resolve on their own.

It’s important to monitor your child’s fever and seek medical attention if it persists for more than a few days, is accompanied by severe symptoms, or if your child is very young or has a weakened immune system.

To help lower a child’s fever, you can give them a fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, ensure they stay hydrated, dress them lightly, and encourage them to rest. Avoid giving aspirin to children as it can lead to a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

How to Take a Temperature

To get accurate temperature readings, it’s best to use a digital thermometer instead of a mercury one.

• Rectal thermometers are the most precise.
• Forehead thermometers provide accurate results when used correctly.
• Oral and ear thermometers are suitable if used properly; follow specific guidelines for accurate readings.
• Axillary temperature checks can give quick results but are less accurate.

Choose the most suitable method based on your child’s age to measure their temperature.

• For children under 3 months: rectal or forehead measurement
• For children 4 months or older: rectal, forehead, or axillary measurement
• For children older than 6 months: rectal, forehead, ear, or axillary measurement
• For children 4 years old or older: oral, forehead, ear, or axillary measurement

Inform your child’s healthcare provider about the temperature measurement method used.

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It’s important to follow the instructions that come with your thermometer to ensure accurate results. Make sure to clean the thermometer before and after each use with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Remember to wait at least 30 minutes after eating or drinking hot or cold liquids before taking a temperature orally. If your child appears to have a fever or is showing signs of illness, contact their healthcare provider for further guidance.

In addition to the tips mentioned above, there are a few more ways you can treat a fever at home:

• Make sure your child gets plenty of rest to help their body fight off the illness.
• Try sponging your child with lukewarm water to help lower their temperature.
• Offer your child foods that are easy to digest, such as broth, toast, or applesauce.

If your child’s fever persists for more than a few days, or if they are experiencing other concerning symptoms, be sure to contact their healthcare provider for further guidance.

Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your child’s health.

When to Call the Health Care Provider

If your child has a temperature outside the normal range for their age or displays severe symptoms, contact their healthcare provider immediately.

• Seek medical advice if your child shows signs of dehydration, persistent high temperature, or other alarming symptoms.

In case of severe symptoms, call emergency services or visit the nearest medical facility.

Patient Education Materials by Helping Hands:

These instructional materials complement medical advice from healthcare professionals at Nationwide Children’s Hospital but do not substitute it. Consult your provider for accurate guidance.

Fever is common in children and often resolves on its own without treatment, but it can be concerning. Use a thermometer to monitor your child’s temperature for fever detection.

What causes a high temperature?

Most fevers in children are triggered by infections, making it challenging for bacteria or viruses to survive.

Common causes of fever include upper respiratory tract infections, ear infections, and childhood illnesses.

Fevers can also be a result of vaccinations or overheating due to excessive clothing or bedding.

When to seek medical help

Phone 999 if your child:

• Look out for signs that require immediate medical attention in children with fever.

Contact your GP if:

• Keep an eye on indications that require monitoring and seeking medical advice in children with fever.

If unable to reach a GP, call 111. Otherwise, observe your child’s general behavior and activity level for insights.

It is important to trust your instincts as a parent or caregiver. If you feel that your child’s condition is serious or worsening, do not hesitate to seek medical help immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your child.

Treating a fever

During a fever, offer plenty of cool water for hydration and ensure babies receive adequate breast milk or formula. Adjust clothing for comfort, but avoid sponging with cool water.

Medicine to reduce fever (antipyretics)

Antipyretics can help reduce fever or alleviate pain in children. Follow dose guidelines provided in the medication leaflet and usage instructions.

More serious illnesses

Be aware of serious symptoms associated with high temperature in children that require immediate medical attention.

Access healthdirect Australia for expert medical advice and support from nurses or doctors.

If your baby under 3 months has a fever higher than 38°C, seek immediate medical assistance at the nearest hospital emergency department.

Key facts

• Fevers are common in children, often caused by viral infections.
• Children with fever may experience high temperature, flushed skin, sweating, or shivering.
• While most children with fever can be treated at home, infants under 3 months require urgent medical attention.

What is a fever?

Fever is a body temperature of 38°C or higher, frequently seen in young children and usually mild. Fevers can often be managed at home but may require urgent medical attention in some cases. Learn more about fever in babies to gain a better understanding.

What symptoms are related to fever in children?

You can recognize a fever in your child by their flushed face, hot to the touch skin, or shivering. Sweating, tiredness, irritability, reduced appetite, and other symptoms may also be present. Use a thermometer to confirm if your child has a fever.

VERIFY YOUR SYMPTOMS — Utilize the Symptom Checker to assess if medical assistance is necessary.

• Viral infections such as the flu or common cold
• Bacterial infections like strep throat or urinary tract infections
• Inflammatory conditions such as Kawasaki disease or juvenile idiopathic arthritis
• Immune system disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Certain medications can also cause fever as a side effect

In addition to asking about your child’s symptoms and health history, doctors may also perform a physical examination to look for signs of infection or other underlying causes of fever. This may include checking for swollen glands, listening to the heart and lungs, and examining the throat and ears. Depending on the circumstances, doctors may also order blood tests, urine tests, or imaging studies to help determine the cause of the fever.

It’s important to communicate openly with your child’s healthcare provider and provide any relevant information that may help in the diagnosis. Remember to mention any recent travel, exposure to sick individuals, or changes in behavior or appetite that could be helpful in determining the cause of the fever. By working closely with your child’s doctor and providing necessary information, you can help ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

When should I take my child to see a doctor?

If your child shows signs of illness, vomiting, rashes, severe headache, or other concerning symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. For a child with an immune system issue and a fever above 38°C, seek medical help promptly. In case of emergency, call an ambulance or proceed to the nearest hospital.

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Monitoring your child’s temperature

It is important to regularly monitor your child’s temperature when they have a fever. You can use a digital thermometer to check their temperature. A fever is considered to be a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Make sure to keep a record of their temperature to track how the fever is progressing.

When to seek medical help

If your child’s fever persists for more than a few days, or if they have other concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rash, or dehydration, it is important to seek medical help. Additionally, if your child is under 3 months old and has a fever, it is recommended to contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Prevention of fevers in children

To help prevent fevers in children, ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations. Teach good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing to prevent the spread of infections. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and stays hydrated to keep their immune system strong.

Remember, fever is a natural response to infection and is usually not harmful. By following these tips, you can help alleviate your child’s discomfort and ensure they receive the appropriate care when needed.

What are the complications of fever in children?

Fevers in young children can sometimes lead to seizures, often associated with viral infections. Immediate medical attention is necessary to rule out serious issues.

Can fever be prevented?

To prevent infections in children, practice good hygiene habits, and ensure they receive necessary vaccinations.

Resources and Support

The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network offer resources on fever in children in various languages. Contact the healthdirect helpline at 1800 022 222 for 24/7 assistance.

If you have any concerns about your child’s fever and need immediate help, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or visit the nearest emergency room. It’s always better to be safe and seek professional help when in doubt.

Symptoms of fever

Symptoms of fever may include feeling unwell, hot and sweaty, shivering, chattering teeth, or a flushed face.

Infection is usually the cause of fever

Fever is typically caused by infections from viruses or bacteria, chronic illnesses, tropical diseases, or certain medications.

Self-treatment suggestions for fever

For managing fever, consider taking appropriate doses of paracetamol or ibuprofen, staying hydrated, and avoiding cold baths. Avoid alcohol, tea, and coffee to prevent dehydration. Sponge exposed skin with tepid water and stand in front of a fan to enhance the cooling effect of evaporation. Bed rest is also recommended.

Additionally, make sure to wear lightweight clothing and use lightweight blankets to prevent overheating. Keep the room temperature cool and well-ventilated. Monitor your temperature regularly and seek medical attention if the fever persists or if you experience severe symptoms.

When to see your doctor for fever symptoms

Contact your doctor if:

• You have a fever for more than 3 days despite home treatments.
• Your temperature goes above 40°C.
• You experience shivering, shaking, or chattering teeth.
• Your condition worsens over time.
• You have unusual symptoms like hallucinations, vomiting, neck stiffness, skin rash, rapid heart rate, chills, or muscle spasms.
• You feel confused or drowsy.
• You have a severe headache unresponsive to painkillers.
• You recently traveled internationally.

When to seek immediate urgent medical attention

If you notice any of the following symptoms in yourself or someone else, seek immediate medical attention:

• High body temperature along with headache and a stiff neck
• A non-blanching rash, indicating bleeding under the skin

Diagnosis methods

Identifying the root cause of a fever is crucial for starting the right treatment. If the cause remains unclear after initial assessment, your doctor may recommend further tests.

Treatment options

Treatment methods vary depending on the underlying issue – in some cases, surgery may be necessary, such as for chronic tonsillitis.

For fevers caused by viruses, antibiotics are not effective. Mild bacterial infections are often best left untreated, allowing the body’s immune system to fight them off.

Fever in children

Children tend to experience around 10 infections per year on average.

In infants and young children, body temperature may not always accurately reflect their health status.

If your child:

• Is six months old or younger
• Develops a rash
• Has a fever of 40°C or higher
• Continues to have a fever after taking paracetamol
• Vomits or has persistent diarrhea
• Refuses to eat or drink
• Cries excessively
• Appears weak, lethargic, or unwell
• Experiences convulsions or twitches
• Has difficulty breathing
• Complains of pain

If you are worried, do not hesitate to seek advice from your doctor.

Using a thermometer

To check your child’s temperature, use a thermometer. However, keep in mind that body temperature may not always accurately signal illness in young children and infants.

Various types of reliable thermometers are available with specific instructions. If unsure, ask your pharmacist for guidance in selecting and using one.

Treatment for fever in children

• Dress your child in light clothing.
• Offer clear fluids, such as water.
• Keep your child cool.
• Administer the appropriate dose of paracetamol based on your child’s age (up to 4 times in 24 hours).
• Consult a doctor if your child is younger than three months.
• Avoid cold baths.

Fever can cause convulsions

Febrile convulsions are seizures that can occur in children due to high fever from infections. They are typically harmless and not associated with epilepsy.

Symptoms of febrile convulsions include loss of consciousness, limb twitching, difficulty breathing, foaming at the mouth, and skin color changes.

If your child experiences convulsions, stay calm and comfort them until the episode subsides. Seek advice from a healthcare professional for further assistance.