Child Fever, older than 12 weeks of age

Fever is only a symptom. The main cause of fever is a cold and/or other viral illness. Fever may be the only symptom for the first 12-24 hours. The onset of localizing signs and symptoms are often delayed. Body temperature normally ranges between 96.8° F and 100.4° F. Most fevers associated with viral illnesses fluctuate between 101.0° F and 104.0° F and last for 2-3 days. 

Perspective of Fever

• 100° F to 102° F = Low-grade fever and beneficial
• 100° F to 104° F = Moderate-grade fever and beneficial
• More than 104° F = High fever and causes discomfort, but harmless
• More than 105° F = Higher risk of bacterial infection
• More than 108° F = Fever itself can be harmful

Reason to Have Your Child Seen

We would want your child to be seen immediately if limp, weak or not moving, unresponsive or difficul to awaken, bluish lips or face, severe difficulty breathing, unable to speak or cry due to difficulty breathing, rash with purple spots or dots, child is confused, bulging soft spot, stiff neck or had a seizure with fever. Depending upon the situation we may want you to call 911. Reasons to seek medical assistance:

• Newborn (less than 1 month old)
• Less than 12 weeks with fever greater than 100.4° F (38° C) rectally
• Age 3-6 months with fever greater than 102.0 F° or acts sick
• Age 3-24 months with fever present more than 24 hours but no other symptoms
• Fever greater than 105.0° F
• Fever lasting more than 3 days
• Shaking chills present more than an hour
• Very irritable
• Won't move arm or leg normally 
• Difficulty breathing
• Buring pain with urination
• Signs of dehydration such as very dry mouth, no urine in more than 8 hours
• Chronic underlying disease causing decreased immune response
• Any concerns you may have for your child

Home Care Advice for Fever

Treatment for all fevers: Extra fluids and less clothing. Give cold fluids orally to help replace sweat and improves heat loss through the skin. Dress in lightweight clothing and sleep with one light blanket. Avoid over bundling. Remember overheated infants can't udress themselves.

Fever Medicine: Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for a fever greater than 102° F or if your child is uncomfortable. Avoid giving yoru child aspirin. NO Motrin for a child less than 6 months of age. 

Sponging: Sponge for a fever more than 104° F that doesn't come down with Tylenol or Motrin and causes discomfort. Use lukewarm water, sponging for 20-30 minutes. If your child shivers or becomes cold, stop sponging or increase the water temperature. 

If you have any concerns about your baby's health, please call. This Website is meant to be a guideline, not a substitute for the care of a competent health care provider. Please do not give any medicines without talking to your doctor first. We are happy to help you in any way we can. 

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