A high temperature is one of the most common childhood symptoms caused by mild viral infections and can last 3–4 days. In most cases, it resolves itself without treatment, but can sometimes signal a more serious illness. If it continues beyond five days, or your child’s condition worsens, see your nearest healthcare professional.
When your child develops a fever, it can be worrying, especially if it’s the first time. As a parent, understanding when a fever is harmless, when to seek urgent medical advice, and how best to keep your child comfortable while their body fights infection is really important.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the common causes, symptoms to look out for, and when you should seek health advice.
What Is a Fever (High Temperature)?
A fever means your child’s body temperature is higher than normal, usually above 38°C when measured with a digital thermometer.The normal body temperature for a child is around 36.4°C, though this can vary slightly depending on the child’s age, the time of day, and how you take the measurement (oral, underarm, or rectal temperature in babies).
Fever is the body’s way of fighting infection. When the immune system detects viruses or bacteria, it raises body temperature to make it harder for germs to survive. This is why fevers often accompany common childhood illnesses such as colds, sore throat, or upper respiratory tract infections.
Common Causes of Fever in Children
The most common causes are normal childhood infections, such as:
- Common colds
- Flu
- Chickenpox
Bacterial infections, including:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Ear infections
- Tonsillitis
In most cases, the fever resolves on its own once the body’s immune system has fought off the infection.
Recognising Fever Symptoms
Being able to spot the symptoms of fever in your child will allow you to take the best course of action as early as possible. Some of the common signs of illness that often accompany a high temperature are:
- Feeling hot to the touch on their forehead, back, or chest
- Flushed cheeks or red eyes
- Feels shivery or has cold hands and feet
- Appears tired or not their usual self
- Has a reduced appetite or is drinking less
If you notice any of these symptoms, you can first try some self care measures at home to help comfort your child and to assess if you should seek further medical advice.
In most cases, it’s best to allow the body’s immune system to do its job. You don’t need to bring the temperature down to normal; focus instead on comfort, hydration, and monitoring for warning signs.
If your child has no pain, is still playing and drinking as normal, no treatment is required.
1. Keep Them Comfortable
Dress your child in loose clothing and use a lightweight sheet or blanket. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and avoid cold baths or tepid Sponging, as cooling your child too quickly can cause them to shiver, which may raise their body temperature further.
2. Offer Plenty of Fluids
Encourage drinking plenty of cool water, breast milk, or an oral rehydration solution if they’re not drinking well. Watch for dry mouth, sunken eyes, or reduced urine output, which all are signs of dehydration.
3. Encourage Rest
Let your child rest and do normal activities if they feel up to it. There’s no need to force bed rest as long as they’re comfortable.
4. Use Medicine if Needed
You can give paracetamol or ibuprofen in the correct dose (always check the patient information leaflet). Never give your child aspirin if they are under 16.
If you think your child may have chickenpox, do not give them ibuprofen, as treatment with ibuprofen is occasionally associated with developing more severe symptoms.
Medication won’t ‘cure’ the fever; it simply helps your child feel better while their body fights the infection.
If your child’s symptoms do persist, you can contact NHS 111, your Paediatrician or GP practice, or a local pharmacist for guidance.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most fevers are mild, certain symptoms can be ‘red flags’ that your child may have a serious illness or serious infection. If you notice any of the following health conditions, go to A&E immediately or call 999:
- Has difficulty breathing or breathing is fast, noisy, or laboured
- Is unresponsive, floppy, or difficult to wake
- Has pale, mottled, or blotchy skin
- Develops a rash that doesn’t fade with the glass test
- Has a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or a bulging soft spot on the baby’s head
- Has a fit (febrile seizure) lasting longer than 5 minutes
- Has a persistent high fever (above 40°C) that doesn’t reduce with medication
- Is showing signs of dehydration despite offering fluids
Here is a quick guide for parents to help understand when to see a paediatrician or visit A&E due to a fever.
| Child’s Age / Symptom | What to do |
|---|---|
| Under 3 months, temperature ≥38°C | Seek urgent medical advice immediately |
| 3–6 months, temperature ≥39°C | Contact GP or NHS 111 |
| Any age, difficulty breathing, rash, floppy or unresponsive | Call 999 or go to A&E |
| Persistent fever >5 days | Book a GP appointment |
| Signs of dehydration | Seek medical review |
| Fever after returning from travel abroad | Contact GP immediately |
Remember, you know your child best. If your instincts tell you your child is seriously unwell, trust them and seek urgent advice.
What Temperature Is Too High for My Child?
A temperature above 38°C is considered a fever. However, what’s ‘too high’ depends on the child’s age and symptoms:
- Under 3 months old – any baby’s temperature ≥38°C needs urgent medical advice. At this age, they are high risk of serious infection.
- 3 to 6 months old – temperature ≥39°C is concerning and should be checked by a health professional.
- Older than 6 months – monitor how your child looks and behaves. A high temperature (even 40°C) may not be dangerous if they’re alert, responsive, and drinking plenty of fluids.
Top Tips For Measuring Your Child’s Temperature
Always use a digital thermometer – they are quick, accurate, and safe. For babies under 3 months of age, measure the rectal temperature (carefully following the thermometer instructions). For older babies and young children, use the underarm method. Avoid mercury thermometers, and do not rely solely on touch, your child could have a high body temperature for many reasons, such as warm clothing or recent activity. See NHS Guidance on how to take your child or baby’s temperature (1)Professional Paediatric Care in Hertfordshire
Whether it’s a high temperature, recurrent infections, or a concern about your child’s development, The Children’s Clinic offers world-class healthcare for babies, children and young people in a supportive, family-centred environment.
If you are based in the Harpenden and St Albans area and are worried about your child’s fever, you can book a Prompt-Response Appointment with Consultant Paediatrician Dr Felicity Taylor.
She will take the time to listen, carry out a full assessment including history and examination, and present a treatment plan to get your child back to normal activities as quickly as possible.
Appointments are for children from birth to 17 years inclusive and are available at Harpenden Medical and One Hatfield Hospital (General Paediatric Appointment only).
You will receive a thorough explanation of any diagnosis made, a plan for further tests, and a follow-up appointment (if any) will be agreed with you.
If onward referral to another tertiary specialist is required (e.g. paediatric ENT, paediatric neurology), Felicity can provide advice and facilitate referrals to the most appropriate specialists.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised guidance and recommendations, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
NHS Guidance on how to take your child or baby’s temperature:
https://www.nhs.uk/baby/health/how-to-take-your-babys-temperature/
