Fever in babies

Fever in babies can be one of the most frightening symptoms for parents, especially when the temperature is high or the baby is only a few weeks old.

Here's what causes fever in babies and what to do if your baby has a fever.

What causes baby fever?

Fever is not a disease. A fever usually means that the body is fighting the disease and the immune system is working. If your child has a fever, in most cases it means they probably have a cold or other viral infection. Pneumonia, urinary tract infections, ear infections, or more serious infections such as a blood bacterial infection or meningitis, although less common in infants, can cause fever.

Other causes of fever in children include:

Reaction to the vaccine
Too hot because you dress too warm or spend too much time outside on a hot day.

What are the signs?

Your child may behave differently and may also be more grumpy and restless than usual.

Other symptoms of fever in children include:

Poor sleeping
Poor eating
Lack of interest in play
Less active or even lethargic
Convulsions or seizures

How can I take my baby's temperature?

You can measure the temperature of a child in many ways, for example, through the rectum, mouth, ear, under the arm or at the temples. Experts recommend using only digital thermometers in children. Mercury thermometers should not be used as they present a risk of mercury exposure and poisoning if they are broken.

Rectal thermometers provide the most accurate temperature readings and are easier to take from an infant.

To take a rectal temperature, first make sure the thermometer is clean. Wash it with soap and water or wipe with alcohol. Lay the baby on his stomach or on his back, bending his legs to his chest. Put a little Vaseline on the thermometer flask and carefully insert it into the rectal opening. Hold the digital thermometer in place for about 2 minutes until you hear a beep. Then carefully remove the thermometer and measure the temperature.

At what temperature does my baby have a fever?

Normal temperature in a child can range from 36 to 38°C. Most doctors consider a rectal temperature of 38°C or higher to be a fever.

When to call your doctor

Call your doctor if your baby:

Is under age 3 months and has a fever; if your baby is under 2 months and has a fever, it is considered an emergency. Seek immediate medical care.
Is lethargic or not responsive
Has problems breathing or eating
Is very cranky, fussy, or difficult to calm down
Has a rash
Shows signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, no tears with crying, or sunken soft spot on the head
Has a seizure

It can be difficult for doctors to tell if a newborn has a simple virus or a more serious infection. This is why doctors sometimes order special tests to find the cause of fever in babies.

What should I do if my child has a fever?

If your baby is less than 1 month old and has a fever, contact your doctor immediately. For older children, try the following tips:

Bathe your baby with warm water. Always check the water temperature on your wrist before bathing your baby.
Dress your baby in a light layer of clothes.
Give your child enough fluids to avoid dehydration. These fluids should be breast milk, formula, electrolyte solution, or water, depending on the age of the baby. Ask your child's doctor for directions. A dehydrated baby may have fewer wet diapers, tears when crying, or dry mouth.
If your baby is over 6 months old and your doctor says everything is fine, you can give him either baby acetaminophen or baby ibuprofen. Never give aspirin to children because of the risk of a rare but dangerous condition called Reye's syndrome. Also, do not give your child under 6 months of medicine containing ibuprofen. Be sure to ask your doctor about dosage and read the instructions on the package before giving your child fever medicine.

If you are concerned about your child's fever, call your doctor for advice and reassurance.