Fever is one of the most common reasons parents bring their child to a pediatrician — and for good reason. It is the body's natural response to infection, and while it can be worrying to see your child unwell, fever itself is usually not dangerous.
What counts as a fever?
In children, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is generally considered a fever. The exact number, however, is only one part of the picture. How your child is behaving — feeding, playing, alertness, and comfort — often tells you more than the thermometer alone.
When a consultation is a good idea
Consider a consultation when:
- Your child is younger than 3 months and has any fever
- Fever lasts more than 2–3 days without clear improvement
- Fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as rash, persistent cough, ear pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Your child seems unusually lethargic, irritable, or is feeding poorly
- You are simply unsure and would feel reassured by a professional assessment
There is no need to wait until you are "certain" something is wrong — pediatric consultations are equally useful for reassurance and for catching something early.
What generally helps at home
For a mild fever in an otherwise well child, comfort measures such as adequate fluids, light clothing, and rest are usually sufficient. Fever-reducing medication may be used as advised by your pediatrician, with attention to correct dosing for your child's weight and age.
A note on emergencies
If your child has a high fever together with warning signs such as difficulty breathing, a seizure, unresponsiveness, or a widespread rash, this needs urgent medical attention — please visit the nearest emergency department rather than waiting for a routine appointment. This clinic does not provide emergency services.
For a closer look at ongoing evaluation of fever, see our Childhood Fever and Acute Illness service page, or read about warning signs that need urgent attention. If your child seems to catch fever alongside frequent colds, our article on recurrent cough and cold in children may also help.