(Last updated: January 31, 2024)

Sick Kids Hospital Advice on Fevers

Fever is one of the most common reasons parents or caregivers may bring a child to the Emergency Department (ED). 🌡 SickKids’ Emergency Physician, Dr. Alia Sunderji, shares key facts on what exactly a fever is, how to treat it and when to come to the ED: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cme5D90AcSu/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D

https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cme5D90AcSu/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

For infants (0-3 months):

  1. Any rectal or forehead temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever and requires immediate medical attention.
  2. Never give fever medication to infants under 3 months without consulting a doctor.
  3. Use a digital thermometer to check temperature, with rectal readings being most accurate for this age group.

For toddlers (1-3 years):

  1. Fever is generally defined as a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
  2. Fevers in this age group are often caused by minor infections and can help fight them.
  3. You can use acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if over 6 months) to reduce fever and discomfort.

When to seek medical attention:

  1. For toddlers, if fever lasts more than 24 hours for children under 2, or more than 72 hours for children 2 and older.

  2. If fever repeatedly goes above 104°F (40°C) or is accompanied by severe symptoms like seizures, severe pain, vomiting, or unusual sleepiness6.Remember, fever itself is often not harmful and can help fight infections. Focus on your child's overall condition rather than just the temperature number.

Reminder:

All information presented on this website and our Instagram is for educational purposes and should not be taken as personal medical advice. These platforms are to educate and should not replace the medical judgment of a licensed healthcare provider who is evaluating a patient.

It is the responsibility of the guardian to seek appropriate medical attention when they are concerned about their child.

Sources: https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/fever https://kidshealth.org/SeattleCH/en/parents/fever.html https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000319.htm https://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-and-advice/conditions-and-symptoms/symptoms/fever-0-12-months/ https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/health-library/fever-in-a-newborn-baby https://www.tylenol.com/children-infants/fever/treat-reduce-babys-fever https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=not-all-fevers-need-treatment-88-p11048 https://montrealchildrenshospital.ca/health-info/fever-in-infants-and-young-children/