Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, breaks down when a child’s fever may signal something more serious.
Few things make a parent’s heart race, like feeling their child’s forehead and realising they have a fever. Is it teething? A viral infection? Something more serious? Should you rush to the emergency room or wait it out with some fluids and rest?
For many parents, especially first-time moms and dads, knowing what to do when your child has a fever can be confusing and anxiety-inducing.
What Is a Fever?
A fever is defined as a body temperature of 38°C or higher. It’s not an illness but a symptom, usually of an underlying infection such as a cold, flu, or tummy bug. Most childhood fevers are caused by viruses, which typically clear up on their own. Bacterial infections, such as ear infections or strep throat, can also cause fevers and may require antibiotics. Teething can raise a baby’s temperature slightly, but rarely over 38°C.
When Should Parents Worry?
While most fevers are harmless, specific warning signs, such as changes in behaviour or other symptoms, mean you should contact your doctor or seek urgent care immediately. Here are some warning signs to look out for if your child:
- They’re younger than 3 months old and have a fever over 38°C.
- Has a fever lasting more than 3 days.
- Is unusually sleepy, irritable, or unresponsive.
- Is struggling to breathe or breathing very fast.
- Has a stiff neck, rash, or severe headache.
- Has a seizure (febrile convulsion).
- Refuses to drink fluids or shows signs of dehydration.
- Has a high fever that doesn’t come down with paracetamol.
How To Take a Temperature
For babies and toddlers, use a digital thermometer and place it under the armpit). For older kids, oral or ear thermometers are also reliable. Avoid mercury thermometers and always read the instructions carefully.
Normal temperature ranges:
- Babies: 36.5°C to 37.5°C
- Children: 36°C to 37°C
- Anything above 38°C is considered a fever, and above 39°C is regarded as a high fever.
How To Care for a Child With a Fever
- Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, such as water, breast milk, or diluted juice.
- Dress them in light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen as advised by your doctor—not both at the same time.
- Monitor them closely, especially at night.
- Don’t panic if their appetite is lower than usual; they’ll eat when they feel better.
- Avoid old myths like cold baths or alcohol rubs, as they can do more harm than good.
What About Febrile Seizures?
Some children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years may have a febrile seizure when their temperature spikes quickly. While terrifying to witness, they are usually harmless and don’t mean the child has epilepsy or brain damage. If your child has a seizure, lay them on their side, don’t put anything in their mouth, and seek medical care immediately.
Preventing Fevers: What You Can Do
Not all fevers are preventable, but you can reduce your child’s risk by:
- Keeping their vaccinations up to date.
- Teaching them to wash their hands often.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Keeping your home smoke-free.
- Maintaining good hygiene with bottles, dummies, and toys.
Conclusion
A fever can be a scary moment in parenting, but it’s often a sign that your child’s immune system is working hard to fight off infection. The key is knowing what’s normal, what’s not, and when to get help. By staying calm, prepared, and informed, you can manage your child’s next fever with confidence—not panic. With Affinity Health’s Day-to-Day Plan, you gain access to GP consultations, telehealth services, and paediatric care—all from the comfort of your home. Their 24/7 Telehealth line connects you to qualified nurses and doctors who can offer advice, assess symptoms, and guide you on your next steps, giving parents peace of mind any time, day or night.