fEVER
Fever Basics:
- Fever is a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
- A fever is the body's way of responding to an infection (which can be viral or bacterial).
- The best way to measure a temperature is with a digital thermometer on the forehead, in the ear (if 6 months or older), in the mouth (if 4 years or older), or rectally (ideal for infants).
- Fever itself is not an illness, but it is a sign or symptom of an illness and it can make your child uncomfortable.
- Fever itself is not dangerous.
- Not every fever needs to be treated, but you can help your child be more comfortable by:
- Encouraging hydration. It’s important to offer fluids more frequently to prevent dehydration
- Avoid overdressing
- Use fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Fever Treatment:
- Fever Medication: Use Acetaminophen every 4 - 6 hours (up to 4 times/day) and Ibuprofen every 6 hours to control fever. These may be alternated or given together.
- Hydration - We expected a minimum of 4 voids per day. Small, frequent sips of water, Pedialyte or formula/breast milk are best.
- Avoid using ice packs or sponging your child with cold water.
- Have your child remain home until they have been fever-free for 24 hours off fever-reducing medications.
When to seek care:
- Fever can often be managed at home with the supportive care above. Reasons to be seen by a medical provider include:
- If your child is less than 3 months old and has a fever
- If your child’s fever is lasting for more than 5 days or more than three days if your child is less than 1 year old.
- If your child has had fever for 3 days with no other associated symptoms.
- If your child’s temperature is regularly going above 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- If your child seems to be getting worse
- If your child has other symptoms, such as ear pain, repeated vomiting, severe sore throat or headache, or neck stiffness
- If you are concerned
When to go to the Emergency Room:
- If your child is under 2 months of age and has any rectal temperature of 100.4 or higher
- If your child is in respiratory distress
- If your child is lethargic (difficult to arouse), very fussy or appears very ill
- If your child is showing signs of severe dehydration: lethargy, little/no urine output, dry lips, sunken fontanelle (soft spot)
- If you are worried
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