What do I do if my child has a fever?

Do this now

Baby under 3 months with a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher? Call the doctor right away, even if the baby seems fine. If you can’t reach them, go to the ER.

Check how your child is acting. A child who plays, drinks, and makes eye contact is usually OK.

Give plenty of fluids, and dress your child in light clothing.

Use fever medicine only if your child is uncomfortable, following the package dose for age and weight. Ask a doctor first for babies under 6 months.

Never give aspirin to children or teens.

Call your child’s doctor if

Your baby is 3 to 6 months old with a temperature over 102°F (38.9°C), or a lower fever and seems unusually fussy, sleepy, or uncomfortable
Your child is 7 to 24 months old with a temperature over 102°F (38.9°C) that lasts more than 1 day
A fever repeatedly goes above 104°F (40°C) at any age
A child under 2 has had a fever for more than 24 hours, or a child 2 or older for more than 3 days
Your child has a stiff neck, severe headache, severe sore throat, ear pain, an unexplained rash, or repeated vomiting or diarrhea
Your child shows signs of dehydration: fewer wet diapers, no tears, or a dry mouth
Your child had a seizure, even a short one
Your child has a weak immune system, sickle cell disease, cancer, or a heart problem
Your child still acts very sick after the fever comes down, or seems to be getting worse

Taking your child’s temperature

For babies under 3 months, a rectal temperature is the most accurate. Write down the reading and the time.

Fever medicine tips

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can make your child more comfortable. Bringing the number down isn’t required.
Ibuprofen isn’t for babies under 6 months.
Use the dosing tool that comes with the medicine, and dose by weight if the label shows it. Ask a pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Don’t give two products with the same ingredient.

See the full fever guide.