Fever in Children: when to worry and when to seek medical care

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🩺 Medically reviewed by the Health Decoded Guide Editorial Team · Last reviewed: July 2026

🔍 Quick Summary

Fever is very common in children and is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

Most children recover within a few days with rest and fluids, but some symptoms may be a sign of a more serious illness that needs urgent medical care.

1️⃣ Introduction

Fever is one of the most common symptoms in children.

• often caused by infections
• usually temporary
• can worry parents—but is often harmless

👉 Fever is usually a sign that your child's immune system is fighting an illness—not the illness itself.

2️⃣ How it happens

Fever occurs when the body raises its temperature to fight infection.

• brain increases temperature set point
• immune system becomes active
• heat helps fight germs

👉 A higher body temperature can help the immune system respond more effectively to some infections.

3️⃣ How high is a fever?

A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is generally considered a fever in children.

• Low-grade fever: usually 38°C–38.9°C"

• High fever: 39°C or higher

👉 A child's behaviour is often more important than the temperature itself.

4️⃣ Common causes

• Infections

→ Viral infections

→ Bacterial infections

• Other causes

Malaria (in endemic areas)
Post-vaccination response

5️⃣ Common Symptoms

• shivering
• feeling hot
• raised body temperature
• irritability or tiredness
• reduced appetite

👉 These occur as part of the immune response.

6️⃣ Associated symptoms

• Respiratory symptoms
- Cough
- Runny nose

• Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea

• Skin changes
- Rash

• General symptoms
- Body aches

• poor feeding (especially babies)

👉 Associated symptoms help identify the cause.

7️⃣🩺When it becomes dangerous 🚨

• child less than 3 months with fever
• seizure or unresponsiveness
• difficulty breathing
• refuses to drink fluids
• unusually sleepy or difficult to wake

Those are huge red flags.

And may indicate:
• serious infection
• need for urgent medical care

8️⃣ Management / treatment

• encourage fluids
• allow rest
• use paracetamol if needed

👉 Dress your child in light clothing and avoid overwrapping, as this can make them more uncomfortable.

9️⃣ Diagnosis

• clinical assessment
• symptom history
• tests if needed

👉 Diagnosis focuses on identifying the cause.

🟢 Important message

Fever in children is common and usually not dangerous.

👉 Always focus on how the child looks and behaves—not just the temperature.

FAQ

• What temperature is considered a fever in children?
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is generally considered a fever in children.

• Should I always give my child paracetamol for a fever?
Not always. The goal is to make your child more comfortable rather than simply lowering the temperature.
Follow the recommended dose for your child's age and weight, and seek medical advice if you're unsure.

• When should I take my child to the hospital for a fever?
Seek urgent medical care if your child is younger than 3 months with a fever,
has difficulty breathing, is very sleepy or difficult to wake, has a seizure, or shows other warning signs.

• Can teething cause a fever?
Teething may cause a slight increase in temperature, but it does not usually cause a true fever (38°C or higher).
A child with a true fever should be assessed for another cause.

• Can a fever cause febrile seizures?
Some children between 6 months and 5 years may develop a febrile seizure during a fever.
Although they can be frightening, most febrile seizures are brief and do not cause long-term harm.

Your child should still be assessed by a healthcare professional after a first febrile seizure.

🔗 Related Health Topics

• Common Childhood Rashes
• Malaria
• Typhoid Fever
• Vomiting in Children
• Ear Infection in Children
• Sore throat

📚 Medical References

• World Health Organization (WHO). Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI).
• National Health Service (NHS). Fever in children.
• Mayo Clinic. Fever in children (Symptom Checker).
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management (NG143).
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Febrile Seizures in Children.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.

If you have symptoms or concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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