What is a fever?
A fever means your child’s body temperature is higher than normal. For children under 5, a fever is a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Fever is the body’s way of fighting infection — it is usually not dangerous on its own, but it tells you something is going on that needs watching.
What to watch for at home
- Temperature: check every 4–6 hours with a thermometer
- How your child looks and acts: are they drinking fluids? responding to you? playing at all?
- Rash: any new spots or redness on the skin
- Breathing: faster than normal, working hard to breathe
- Wet diapers: fewer wet diapers means your child may be dehydrated
What you can do at home
- Give fluids: breast milk, formula, water, or diluted juice — small amounts often
- Dress lightly: one layer of clothing, light blanket if needed
- Fever medicine: acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for children over 6 months) can help with comfort. Follow the dosing instructions on the package for your child’s weight — not their age
- Do not: use aspirin in children under 18. Do not use cold baths or ice
- Rest: keep your child calm and comfortable
| 📞 Call your provider if: Fever over 104°F (40°C) Fever lasting more than 3 days Your child seems very sick or unusually sleepy Fewer wet diapers than normal New rash appears You’re worried — trust your instincts | 🚨 Go to the ER immediately if: Fever in a baby under 3 months old — any fever Seizure (shaking, stiffening, unresponsive) Struggling to breathe Blue or gray color around lips or fingertips Won’t wake up or very hard to wake Stiff neck |