Fevers in Children: A Guide for Parents

What is a Fever in Children?

When a child has a fever, it means the body is responding to illness or infection, which can have many possible causes. Fevers are extremely common in young children, whose immune systems are still developing. Your child may have a fever from a viral or bacterial infection, like:

• COVID-19

• Ear infection

• Hand, foot and mouth disease

• Influenza (the flu)

• RSV

• Strep throat

You can check your child's temperature with a digital rectal thermometer (the most accurate option for babies and toddlers) or a forehead thermometer. You can also use an oral or in-ear thermometer for older children.

Fortunately, most fevers are normal and manageable. The severity of a fever depends on your child’s age and other symptoms. If you have questions about a fever, call your pediatrician. They know your child’s health history and can provide personalized guidance for you. You don’t have to wait for symptoms to get worse.

What Are Common Fever Symptoms in Children?

Common fever symptoms in children often affect how they feel, act and eat. If your child has a fever, they may:

• Feel warm or hot to the touch

• Be fussier than usual

• Have less energy or be less talkative

• Eat less or refuse food

• Show signs of thirst

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Because a fever is the body’s response to an illness or infection, it’s important to watch for other symptoms that may occur along with the fever, such as:

• Body aches

• Chills

• Dehydration

• Diarrhea

• Difficulty breathing

• Lethargy

• Poor appetite

• Rash

• Stiff neck

• Vomiting

How Can I Treat My Child’s Fever at Home?

Most fevers can be managed at home. If your child is otherwise acting normally and doesn’t have other symptoms, you may not even need to treat their fever.

If your child is uncomfortable, these steps can help ease fever symptoms:

Fever-Reducing Medicine

• Give acetaminophen (Tylenol)or ibuprofen (Motrin) as directed.

• Acetaminophen is safe for all ages. Ibuprofen should only be used in children 6 months and older.

• Some pediatricians may recommend alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen to help keep your child comfortable.

• Never give your child aspirin.

Common Over-the-Counter Medication Dosing Amounts for Children

Comfort and Cooling

• Apply a cool compress to the forehead or wrists.

• Dress your child in light clothing to avoid trapping heat.

• Give your child lukewarm baths or sponge baths.

Foods and Fluids

• Encourage fluids to prevent dehydration.

  • For babies under 1 year: offer extra breastmilk or formula.

  • For toddlers and older children: offer water or electrolyte drinks like Pedialyte or Gatorade. Popsicles or juice can also help keep them hydrated.

• Don’t force your child to eat. Offer small amounts of easy-to-digest foods.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Child’s Fever?

Some fevers require medical care right away.

Seek Emergency Care If:

• Your child is younger than 3 months and has a fever of 100.4°F or higher.

• Your child has underlying health conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, that make infections more dangerous.

Call Your Child’s Pediatrician If:

Your child has:

• A temperature of 104°F or greater at any age.

• A fever of 102°F or higher lasting two days or more.

• A fever that does not improve with treatment.

Your child has a fever along with any of the following symptoms:

• Confusion or changes in mental state

• Dehydration

• Extreme drowsiness

• Headache or stiff neck

• Inconsolable crying

• New rash

• Severe pain

• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

When to Go to the Pediatrician:

• Fever that goes away and returns

• Fever that lasts longer than three days

• Symptoms that are not severe

When to Go to Children’s Care Today:

If your child is stable but they have:

• Fever that doesn’t respond to medication

• Moderate symptoms

• Persistent fever (longer than two days)

When to Go to the Emergency Department

• Infants under 3 months old with a 100.4 F or higher temperature

• Severe symptoms like trouble breathing, severe headache or stiff neck

If your child’s temperature is above 100.4 F but they don’t have other severe symptoms, connect with one of our expert pediatricians. We can provide trusted guidance on what to look for, how to manage care at home and when you should come for an in-person or virtual visit to give you peace of mind.

Who Should I Call if I’m Concerned About a Fever?

If your child has a fever, we are here to help you know where to go and give the care you need. Children’s Nebraska offers comprehensive pediatric care including primary care, Children’s Care Today and our emergency department.