Published on March 12, 2019
Fever Facts
What is a fever?
Fever is only a symptom and not a disease. Because most viruses and bacteria thrive when the body is at 98.6°F, the body raises its own temperature to activate the immune system and create unsuitable conditions for the infection to survive.
How do I take my child’s temperature?
** Always use the actual temperature, no matter where you take the temperature on the body. Do NOT add or subtract a degree. **
- Tympanic Temperature
- In ear; for children six months or older
- Follow manufacturer’s recommendations
- Oral Temperature
- For children six years and older
- Wait 30 minutes after a child has either eaten or drank.
- Place thermometer under the child’s tongue and leave in place for two to three minutes.
- Never leave a child unattended while the thermometer is in place.
- Axillary Temperature
- Under arm; for children five years and younger
- Place the thermometer end under a dry arm and hold snugly in place for four minutes.
- Rectal Temperature
- Coat end of thermometer with petroleum jelly and gently place in rectum one inch.
- Hold in place for two to three minutes.
- Never leave a child unattended while the thermometer is in place.
- Forehead Strips
- DO NOT USE! They are simply not accurate.
What is considered “having a fever”?
Having a temperature of 100.4 degree Fahrenheit and above.
Do all fevers need to be treated?
No. If comfortable, a child does not need medication to treat a fever. But, you may use medication if your child is uncomfortable or having trouble sleeping.
What is a “Febrile seizure”?
Febrile seizures cause no permanent harm. Only about four in 100 children have a fever seizure or convulsion. Remember: seizures are not caused by a high fever, but how rapidly a fever increases.
What medications can be used to treat fever?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) are used to treat fever. Find medication dosing charts here. Medications generally lower a fever by two or three degrees, but they will not always bring the temperature down to normal. Dosing is determined according to a child’s weight. Never give aspirin to children under 18 years old!
Additional Steps to Care for a Child with a Fever:
- Offer extra fluids.
- Dress in lightweight clothing. If child complains of chills, cover them with a light blanket.
- Do not over-dress; overheated infants can’t undress themselves!
- Do not bathe or sponge a fevered child with alcohol!
- Wait one hour after giving fever medication before bathing.
