Fever in children: a calm guide for parents

Fever is one of the most common symptoms in children and is usually a natural defense response to harmless viral infections. What matters is not the number on the thermometer but the child's overall condition — if they are playing, drinking and responsive, there is usually little to worry about.

What is fever and why does it happen?

Fever is the body raising its own temperature to fight infection — a sign the immune system is working, not an illness in itself. The cause is usually a simple viral infection (a cold or virus) and does not need antibiotics. A reading above 38°C is considered a fever.

What to do at home

The goal is to make the child comfortable, not to 'reset' the number:

• Dress the child lightly and keep the room cool and airy
• Offer small amounts of fluid (water, breast milk) often
• Give paracetamol or ibuprofen at the dose for their weight
• If the child is comfortable, you don't have to medicate every fever
• Don't give antibiotics or aspirin without a doctor

Measuring fever correctly

For the most accurate result use a rectal thermometer in babies and an armpit or ear thermometer in older children. Measure when the child is calm; readings can run high right after crying or being overdressed.

Warning (red-flag) signs

The child's overall condition matters more than the number. The following need immediate assessment:

• Any fever in a baby under 3 months
• Lethargy, difficulty waking, constant crying
• Difficulty breathing or blue lips
• A rash that doesn't fade when pressed
• Seizures or a temperature above 39°C that won't come down

Common myths

Fever doesn't 'burn the brain' — ordinary infection fever doesn't harm organs. Cold water or alcohol rubs are dangerous and cause shivering. Teething doesn't cause high fever; a temperature above 38.5°C means another cause should be sought.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if the child is lethargic, has seizures, breathing difficulty, a rash that doesn't fade when pressed, or fever lasting over 3 days.

Frequently asked questions

At what temperature is fever dangerous?

The child's condition matters more than the number. But any fever of 38°C or higher in a baby under 3 months needs immediate medical review.

Can I bathe a child with a fever?

Wiping with lukewarm (not cold) water can help, but cold water and alcohol rubs are not recommended.

Can I alternate paracetamol and ibuprofen?

Sometimes done on a doctor's advice, but only do it after consulting a doctor so the doses aren't confused.

This article is for information only and does not replace a doctor's advice.