Few things worry parents more than seeing their child with a fever. But when do you need to call the doctor’s office, and when can you treat it at home?
The answer depends on your child’s age, temperature, and symptoms.
What is a fever?
“A fever is your child’s body doing its job,” explains Thomas Donohue, MD, a pediatrician at Carilion Children’s. “It’s a natural response to infection and helps fight off viruses and bacteria.” While fevers can make kids feel uncomfortable, most fevers are not dangerous.
In general, a temp of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever.
When to call the doctor right away
No matter your child’s age, contact your pediatrician if your child has:
- A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed on
- Trouble breathing
- Extreme sleepiness or won’t wake easily
- A severe headache or stiff neck
- Persistent vomiting or dehydration (dry lips, no tears, fewer wet diapers)
- A fever lasting more than 3 days
Trust your instincts—you know your child best!
Fever guidelines by age
Less than 1 month
Go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
1 – 3 months
Call your pediatrician immediately if fever is 100.4°F or higher.
At this age, even a low-grade fever can be a sign of a serious infection. Don’t wait or try to treat it at home first.
3 – 6 months
Call your pediatrician if:
- Fever lasts more than 24 hours
- Fever is above 102°F
- Your baby seems unusually fussy, very sleepy, or hard to comfort
6 months and older
Call your pediatrician if:
- Fever is 105°F or above
- Fever is above 102°F and lasts more than 3 days
- Fever doesn’t lower with fever-reducing medicine
- Your child is very irritable, unusually tired, or not acting like themselves
How to manage a fever at home
- Monitor closely
- Focus on comfort, not just the number on the thermometer
- Use fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Make sure your child stays hydrated with age-appropriate liquids
- Use a reliable thermometer (rectal or forehead readings are most accurate for babies)
- Avoid over-bundling—too many layers can raise body temperature
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s fever, reach out to your pediatrician.
