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My child has a fever: when should I worry?
Fever is common in kids and usually means the body is fighting an infection. Age matters most: a fever in a baby under 3 months always needs a doctor right away.
🔴 Go to the ER or call 911 if there is
- Any fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby under 3 months
- Trouble breathing, or the ribs pull in with each breath
- Very hard to wake, limp, or not responding normally
- A rash that does not fade when pressed
- No wet diaper or no urine for 8 hours or more
- A seizure
🟠 Get care today if there is
- Fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher in a child 3–6 months old
- Fever lasting more than 2–3 days
- Ear pain, sore throat, or pain when peeing
🟢 What helps at home
- Offer fluids often, even small sips
- Dress them in light clothing
- Use a children’s fever reducer only as the label directs for their weight and age
Learn more from MedlinePlus, the U.S. National Library of Medicine: Fever in a child →. This guide is general information for adults and caregivers. It is not medical advice, it cannot cover every case, and it is not a substitute for a clinician who can examine the person. When in doubt, seek care. FreeDoc is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Library of Medicine.