Fever in children
A fever is one of the most common reasons parents bring a child to the doctor. Most fevers are caused by viral infections and settle in a few days, but some signs need prompt attention.
This guide is general information for parents, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your child, contact a doctor.
Go to emergency straight away if
Go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call 1122.
- Your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38°C or higher.
- Your child has a fit (seizure).
- Your child is very drowsy, hard to wake or unusually floppy.
- Breathing is fast, noisy or difficult, or the lips look blue or grey.
- A rash does not fade when you press a glass against it.
- Your child has a stiff neck, severe headache or is bothered by light.
- During dengue season: severe tummy pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the gums or nose, or your child becomes restless or very tired as the fever settles.
What counts as a fever
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is a fever. A digital thermometer gives the most reliable reading. Touching your child’s forehead can tell you they feel warm, but not how high the temperature is.
The fever itself is the body’s response to an infection. How your child looks and behaves often tells you more than the number on the thermometer.
Caring for your child at home
Most children with a fever can be cared for at home if they are drinking, passing urine and still respond normally to you.
- Offer plenty of fluids. Keep breastfeeding babies.
- Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room comfortably cool.
- Let your child rest. They do not need to eat much for a day or two if they are drinking.
- Fever medicine can make your child more comfortable. Give it only as the doctor advises or as the label says for your child’s age and weight.
- Never give aspirin to children.
Fever during dengue season
Dengue is common in Lahore after the monsoon. A child with a high fever, body aches, headache or a rash during dengue season should be seen by a doctor, who may arrange a blood test.
Warning signs often appear as the fever comes down, so keep watching your child closely even when the temperature falls.
Book an appointment if
- Your baby is 3 to 6 months old and has a fever of 39°C or higher.
- The fever lasts more than 3 days.
- Your child is drinking less than usual or passing less urine.
- Your child has ear pain, a sore throat, pain passing urine or a new rash.
- Your child keeps getting fevers, or you are worried for any other reason.
Dr Amir Rasheed sees children at 56 Sultan Mehmood Rd, Mehmood Booti, Shalamar Town, Lahore, 54000. Monday–Saturday, 7:00 pm–midnight. Sunday, 11:30 am–5:00 pm.
Good care starts with a conversation.
Request a consultation with Dr Amir Rasheed. Clinic staff will confirm an available time.