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Fever in Children

A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. It happens when the body raises its temperature as part of the immune response.

In children, fever is most often caused by an infection. Viruses and bacterial infections can both cause fever. Vaccines, inflammatory conditions and other medical problems can also raise body temperature.

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AAP Guide to Fever in Children

The AAP guide below explains what counts as a fever, which warning signs need urgent care, and what you can do at home.

AAP Symptom CheckerFever

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Your child looks very ill, is getting worse or is not drinking well.
  • The fever lasts longer than expected or keeps returning.
  • Your child has a stiff neck, severe headache, severe ear pain, repeated vomiting, an unexplained rash or another symptom that concerns you.
  • Your baby is younger than 3 months and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has severe trouble breathing.
  • Your child is very difficult to wake or does not respond normally.
  • Your child has a seizure and does not recover normally.
  • Your child develops blue or gray lips or face, or another life-threatening symptom.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on fever and infection

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms