Fever in babies: when to call the pediatrician
Fever in babies and toddlers: the under-3-months rule and when to call the pediatrician
Reviewed against 2 sources, listed below
When to call
- Under 3 months (12 weeks): a temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher means the baby should be seen right away.
- Call the pediatrician right away when a fever comes with: looking very ill, unusually drowsy or very fussy; a stiff neck; trouble breathing; an unexplained rash; repeated vomiting or diarrhea; a seizure; having been somewhere very hot, like an overheated car.
- Also call when a temperature rises above 104°F (40°C) repeatedly, when the child still acts sick after the fever comes down, or seems to be getting worse.
- How long: call if a fever lasts more than 24 hours in a child under 2, or more than 3 days in a child 2 or older.
At a glance
- How the child looks and acts matters more than the number on the thermometer.
- Children with immune problems, heart problems, or on steroids need a call sooner.
In Livia
Log any medicine given as a record, and keep logging feeds and diapers: how long the fever has gone on and how much she's drinking are what the doctor will ask.
Get early access →Sources
- AAP / HealthyChildren.orgFever: When to Call the Pediatricianhealthychildren.org
- AAP / HealthyChildren.orgFever Without Fear: Information for Parentshealthychildren.org
Education from the sources listed, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child, call your pediatrician; in an emergency, call 911.