Fever What to Do When Your Kid Has a

A fever is a sign that your child's body is fighting an infection. While a fever can be alarming, it's usually not a cause for concern unless it's very high or your child has other concerning symptoms.

How to tell if your child has a fever

The normal body temperature range for children is between 97.6 degrees Fahrenheit (36.4 degrees Celsius) and 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). A fever is considered to be anything above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

You can take your child's temperature orally, rectally, or with a temporal artery thermometer. Rectal temperatures are the most accurate, but they can be uncomfortable for your child. Temporal artery thermometers are quick and easy to use, but they can be less accurate than rectal thermometers.

What to do if your child has a fever

If your child has a fever, you can do the following to help them feel more comfortable:

* Give them acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce their fever. Follow the dosing instructions on the medication label carefully.

* Dress your child in light, loose clothing.

* Keep your child's room cool and humidified.

* Give your child plenty of fluids to drink.

* Let your child rest.

When to call the doctor

You should call the doctor if your child:

* Is younger than 3 months old and has a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher

* Has a fever of 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or higher

* Has a fever that lasts for more than 3 days

* Has other concerning symptoms, such as a rash, vomiting, or diarrhea

Fever and seizures

Some children who have a fever may have seizures. This is most common in children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. If your child has a seizure, stay calm and do the following:

* Turn your child on their side to prevent choking.

* Cushion their head with something soft.

* Loosen any tight clothing.

* Don't put anything in your child's mouth.

* Time the seizure.

* Call 911 if the seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes or if your child doesn't start breathing again after the seizure.

Preventing fevers

There is no sure way to prevent fevers, but you can reduce your child's risk of getting sick by:

* Washing your hands and your child's hands frequently

* Keeping your child away from people who are sick

* Making sure your child's vaccines are up to date