Fever in children
A fever is a temperature of over 37.5°C. Fevers are quite common in young children and are usually mild.
If your child’s face feels hot to the touch and they look red or flushed then they may have a fever. You can check their temperature with a thermometer. Measured under the arm, normal temperature is about 36.4°C (97.4°F). Under the tongue, normal temperature is slightly higher at about 37°C (98.4°F). This may vary a bit.
If you're worried speak to your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647. If the surgery is closed, contact your GP out-of-hours service. If you're still concerned, or if your GP or out-of-hours service can’t come quickly enough, take your child straight to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department of your nearest hospital.
Always contact your GP, health visitor, practice nurse or nurse practitioner if:
- your child has other signs of illness as well as a raised temperature
- your baby’s temperature is 38°C (101°F) or higher (if they’re under three months), or
- your baby’s temperature is 39°C (102°F) or higher (if they’re three to six months)
If the doctor doesn’t find a reason for the temperature they may ask you to collect a urine sample in a sterile container so they can test for infection.
How to treat a fever
It’s important to keep your child hydrated. Even if your child isn’t thirsty try to get them to drink little and often to keep their fluid levels up. Don’t give them food unless they want it.
Treat discomfort and fever with paracetamol or ibuprofen (always follow the dosage instructions carefully).
The following suggestions may help your child feel more comfortable:
- Give your child plenty of cool clear fluids.
- Undress them to their nappy or vest and pants.
- Cover them with a sheet if necessary.
- Keep the room well aired and at a comfortable temperature (about 18°C (65°F)) by adjusting the heating or opening a window.
- If your child is distressed and uncomfortable, try giving them paracetamol or ibuprofen. You can’t give them both at the same time, but if one doesn’t work you may want to try the other later. Always check the instructions on the bottle or packet to find out the correct dose and frequency for your child’s age.
If you have a thermometer, take your child’s temperature under their armpit. If it’s above 40-41°C (104-105°F), or if your child still feels feverish, contact your GP or GP out-of-hours service or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Types of thermometer
- Digital thermometers. Digital thermometers are quick to use, accurate and can be used under the armpit (always use the thermometer under the armpit with children under five). Hold your child’s arm against his or her body and leave the thermometer in place for the time stated in the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Ear (or tympanic) thermometers. Ear thermometers are put in the child’s ear. They take the child’s temperature in one second and do not disturb the child, but they're expensive. Ear thermometers may give low readings when not correctly placed in the ear, so read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and familiarise yourself with how the thermometer works (this applies to all thermometers).
- Strip-type thermometers. Strip-type thermometers, which you hold on your child’s forehead, are not an accurate way of taking their temperature. They show the temperature of the skin, not the body.
- Mercury-in-glass thermometers. Mercury-in-glass thermometers haven’t been used in hospitals for some years and are no longer available to buy. They can break, releasing small shards of glass and highly poisonous mercury. Do not use mercury thermometers. If your child is exposed to mercury, get medical advice immediately.
Further information
