What counts as a fever?
In children, a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is generally considered a fever. A digital thermometer gives the most reliable reading. Note the temperature and the time, as this helps the doctor.
Caring for your child at home
- Give plenty of fluids — breastfeed or offer feeds often for babies
- Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room comfortable
- Check on your child regularly, including during the night
- Only give fever medicine at the dose your doctor advises for your child's age and weight
- Do not give aspirin to children
When to see the child specialist
- Your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38°C or higher
- Your baby is 3 to 6 months old and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
- The fever lasts more than 5 days
- Your child is not feeding or drinking, or is passing much less urine
- Your child seems unusually unwell, or you are worried
Go to hospital or call 108 immediately if your child:
- Has difficulty breathing, or is breathing very fast
- Has a fit (seizure)
- Has a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it
- Is very drowsy, floppy or hard to wake
- Has a stiff neck, or skin that is very pale, blue or blotchy
Ambulance: 108 · Emergency: 112
Frequently asked questions
Is a high fever dangerous by itself?
The height of the temperature alone does not always show how ill a child is. How your child looks and behaves — feeding, alertness, breathing — matters as much. If you are worried, have your child checked.
What should I bring to the clinic?
Your temperature readings, the names and doses of any medicines you have given and when, and your child's vaccination card.
