Fevers are one of the most frequent reasons parents call their pediatricians. While a common illness, a fever in kids can be concerning. Understanding what a fever means, what symptoms to look out for, and how to manage it at home can help parents feel more confident when their child is sick.
What is a fever?
A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature above the normal range that is often caused by the body fighting off an infection or illness.
Normal temperature range in kids
A normal child’s temperature typically ranges between 97°F and 99°F, depending on the child.
If you are wondering “what is a fever for a child,” the answer is generally any temperature at or above 100.4°F. Temperatures taken orally, rectally, under the arm, or with a forehead scan may vary slightly, with rectal temperatures being on the higher side.
Types of fever
Not all fevers are the same. The temperature level, how old the child is, and their symptoms can help determine if there is a reason for concern.
Low-grade fever (below 102°F)
A low-grade fever is typically between 100.4°F and 102°F. These mild fevers are common with different illnesses, such as colds, and typically resolve on their own with rest and fluids.
High fever (102°F and above)
A high fever is usually considered 102°F or higher. If your child has a high fever for more than 24 hours, you can call your pediatrician. While high fevers may be alarming, they do not necessarily mean a more serious illness.
Fever in infants: special considerations
However, a fever in infants, particularly those younger than three months, should always be taken seriously. A fever of 100.4°F in infants under 2 months requires medical evaluation.
Parents should contact their pediatrician right away if an infant develops a fever, especially if the child has not received the recommended vaccines at 2 months of age.
What causes fever in kids?
A fever in kids may be caused by many different things. Most of the time, it is caused by common infections.
Viral infections
Viruses are the most common cause of a fever in children. This can include colds, the flu, COVID-19, stomach viruses, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Bacterial infections
Some fevers may be caused by bacterial infections. This can include strep throat, ear infections, or pneumonia. These infections may require evaluation and treatment with antibiotics.
Non-infectious causes
Fevers in kids may also be caused by vaccines, teething, or even heat exposure.
Sometimes, parents may notice that temperatures rise later in the day and may wonder, “Why do fevers spike at night?” This happens due to the body’s natural circadian rhythm, which causes the body’s temperature to elevate at night.
What are the symptoms associated with a fever in children?
In addition to an elevated temperature, children may experience other symptoms when they are sick.
Fever and headache in kids
Sometimes, a headache may accompany a fever. If a fever and headache are accompanied by a stiff neck – meaning your child cannot move their neck to look up or down or move around – it is important to seek medical attention. This could indicate a condition such as meningitis.
Fever and rash in kids
At times, a rash may present along with the fever and may indicate a wide range of viral or bacterial illnesses, requiring careful clinical evaluation. In an unvaccinated child, the possibility of measles should be strongly considered, especially if cough, runny nose, and red eyes come first. Prompt medical care is important, as measles spreads easily and can cause serious complications. Other causes include viral illnesses like chickenpox, roseola, or hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Other common symptoms
Children with a fever may also have:
- Chills or sweating
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Runny nose or cough
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Body aches
A fever in a toddler could also cause fussiness, difficulty sleeping, or clinginess.
Treating your child’s fever
Managing a fever is a combination of the use of over-the-counter fever-reducing medications and supportive care with home remedies.
Over-the-counter medications
When it comes to how to reduce a fever safely, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to reduce discomfort and lower a fever. Please always follow your pediatrician's instructions and dosing guidelines based on your child’s age and weight.
Home remedies and care
- Encouraging drinking liquids to prevent dehydration
- Allowing your child to rest
- Dressing your child in lightweight clothing
- Applying a damp washcloth to the forehead
- Offering easy-to-eat foods if they have an appetite, but do not force them to eat
When to call your pediatrician for a fever
Most fevers resolve themselves, but certain symptoms warrant a call to a pediatrician.
Warning signs of a serious condition
Contact your pediatrician if your child:
- Is a newborn younger than 2 months with a fever of 100.4°F or higher
- Has not received all the recommended immunizations for their age
- Has a fever lasting longer than 24 hours for infants and toddlers ages three months to 2 years
- Has a fever lasting longer than three days for children 2 and older
- Has a fever higher than 104°F
- Shows signs of dehydration
- Is difficult to wake up
- Has trouble breathing
- Experiences persistent vomiting or severe headache
You should also call your pediatrician if your child does not seem to be getting better or if their symptoms become worse. If something feels off to you as a parent, trust it and get care for your child.
For more information about pediatric primary care at Valley, please visit ValleyHealth.com/PedsPrimaryCare.
About the Author
Dr. Shah is the Director of General Outpatient Pediatrics for Valley Medical Group.
