What to Do When Your Child Has a Fever
Fever in Children: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
Your child feels hot, and you're wondering if you should rush to the emergency room or stay home. Most fevers are your child's body fighting off common infections and will get better on their own. While scary for parents, fevers are usually not dangerous and often help your child recover faster.
What's going on?
A fever means your child's body temperature is higher than normal, usually over 38°C (100.4°F). It's actually a good sign that your child's immune system is working hard to fight off germs like viruses or bacteria.
Most childhood fevers come from common illnesses like colds, flu, or ear infections. These typically last 2 to 3 days and resolve without any special treatment. Your child's age matters too, babies under 3 months need medical attention for any fever, while older children can usually handle fevers well at home.
The fever itself rarely causes harm. Your child might feel uncomfortable, but their body knows how to regulate temperature safely in most cases.
What you might notice
- Temperature over 38°C (100.4°F) when taken properly
- Your child feels hot to touch, especially forehead or back of neck
- Flushed or red cheeks
- Less interest in eating or drinking
- More sleepy or cranky than usual
- Chills or shivering
What helps at home
Keep your child comfortable and hydrated. Offer plenty of fluids like water, breast milk, or formula. Popsicles and soup count too. Dress them in light, breathable clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
You can give acetaminophen or ibuprofen following the package directions for your child's weight. Never give aspirin to children. These medications help your child feel better but don't cure the underlying illness.
Rest is key. Let your child sleep as much as they need, and keep activities quiet and calm.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room if your child has trouble breathing, won't wake up properly, has a severe headache with neck stiffness, or seems very unwell beyond just having a fever.
Contact your doctor or text Arlo if your child is under 3 months with any fever, the fever lasts more than 3 days, your child won't drink fluids, or you're concerned about how they look or act. Trust your instincts as a parent.
The takeaway
Most fevers are temporary and harmless, even when they feel scary. You're doing great by watching your child carefully and keeping them comfortable.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References - [Fever and temperature taking](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/feverandtemperature_taking)
- [Fever in children](https://aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=30&language=english)
- [When your child has a fever](https://ontario.ca/page/when-your-child-has-fever)