English Fever in Children
English Fever in Children
English Fever in Children
Fever in children
English
Fever (a high temperature) is common in children. Fever is a normal response to many illnesses, the most common being an
infection in the body. Fever itself is usually not harmful – in fact, it helps the body’s immune system fight off infection.
While fevers can be concerning for parents, doctors will usually be more concerned about what is causing the fever, and not what
the child’s temperature is. It is more important for you to monitor any symptoms of the underlying illness, rather than the fever itself.
If your baby is under three months and has a fever above 38°C, then you should see a doctor, even if they have no other
symptoms.
Some thermometers are more suitable for particular age groups so you should always read and follow the manufacturer’s
directions to get an accurate reading. You can also ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use your thermometer. Do
this before you need it.
Febrile convulsions
Some children can have convulsions (a ‘fit’ or seizure) when they have a fever. These are called febrile convulsions. Your child may
have a febrile convulsion if their temperature goes up suddenly. Sometimes, a convulsion happens when parents don’t actually
know their child has a fever. Febrile convulsions are not common and do not usually cause any long-term health effects. See our
fact sheet Febrile convulsions (rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Febrile_Convulsions).
Care at home
The infection that leads to a fever is often caused by a virus, and sometimes by bacteria. Only bacterial infections are treated with
antibiotics. Viral infections are far more common and do not need antibiotics, because antibiotics do not cure viruses.
Lowering your child’s fever will not help treat the underlying illness more quickly. The only advantage of lowering a fever is
improving your child’s comfort.
If your child seems well and is happy, there is no need to treat a fever. If your child is irritable, there are things you can do to help
them to feel more comfortable:
• Give your child frequent small drinks. Many children refuse to eat when they have a fever. This is not a problem, as long as they
stay hydrated.
• Give extra breastfeeds, formula bottles or cooled boiled water to babies under six months old.
• Give your child paracetamol and/or ibuprofen if the fever is making them irritable or they have other symptoms, such as a sore
throat. Carefully follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. Do not give ibuprofen to babies under three months old or to
any child who is dehydrated. Never give aspirin to children. See our fact sheet Pain relief for children (rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_
sheets/Pain_relief_for_children_-_Paracetamol_and_Ibuprofen).
• Try wiping your child’s forehead with a sponge or facewasher soaked in slightly warm water to help cool them down. It’s
important they don’t become too cold or uncomfortable when you do this. Cold baths or showers are not recommended.
• Dress your child in enough clothing so that they are not too hot or cold. If your child is shivering, add another layer of clothing or
a blanket until they stop.
Watch your child for signs that their illness is getting worse.
For all other children, take them to see a doctor if their temperature is above 38°C and they have any of the following symptoms:
• a stiff neck or light is hurting their eyes
• vomiting and refusing to drink much
• a rash
• more sleepy than usual
• problems with breathing
• pain that doesn’t get better with pain relief medication.
Developed by The Royal Children’s Hospital with support from The Victorian State Government.
rch.org.au/kidsinfo
Reviewed 2018
Disclaimer
This information should not replace discussion with your doctor or a healthcare professional. The RCH has made all reasonable efforts to ensure this information is
accurate at the time of publishing. The RCH is not responsible for any mistakes, misunderstanding, or the success of any treatment outlined in these handouts. This
information is updated regularly. Always check and make sure that you have the current version.