A fever in a baby can be a signal that needs closer assessment, especially in younger infants. Here’s guidance you can use to decide when to seek medical care. Direct answer
- If your baby is under 3 months old and has a fever (rectal temperature 100.4°F/38°C or higher), seek urgent medical care immediately.
- If your baby is 3 to 6 months old and has a fever of 100.4°F/38°C or higher, contact your pediatrician promptly or seek in-person evaluation, especially if the fever lasts more than a day or is accompanied by concerning signs.
- For babies 6 months and older, call your child’s doctor if the fever is 102°F (39°C) or higher, or if fever lasts more than 2 days, or if your baby shows any warning signs (see below).
Key warning signs that require medical attention now
- Your baby is very sleepy, hard to wake, or inconsolable.
- Fast or troubled breathing, persistent cough, trouble breathing, grunting, or chest retractions.
- Fever lasting more than 2 days (or 1 day if very young within the 3–6 month range) without a clear cause.
- Dehydration signs: fewer wet diapers, dark urine, no tears when crying, dry mouth.
- Rash, stiff neck, severe or persistent vomiting, or inability to keep fluids down.
- Poor feeding or refusing to drink for several hours.
- Symptoms suggesting a more serious illness (unusual limp, inconsolable crying, confusion, or a lack of responsiveness).
- Any fever higher than 105°F (40.5°C) that does not decrease with fever-reducing medicine, or fever that returns after it seems to improve.
Practical steps you can take now (for comfort and monitoring)
- Keep your baby dressed in light clothing and ensure the room is comfortable (not too hot or cold).
- Offer age-appropriate fluids if tolerated. Small, frequent sips may help prevent dehydration.
- Use fever-reducing medication only if advised by a clinician or if your baby is within the appropriate age range and weight. Do not give aspirin to children. Follow dosing instructions carefully.
- Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms and keep a record of temperature readings, times, and accompanying signs.
Who to contact or where to go
- If you’re unsure or your baby’s age is under 3 months, err on the side of contacting a pediatrician or going to the emergency department for evaluation.
- For persistent or concerning fevers, or if you notice any warning signs, seek medical care promptly.
If you’d like, share your baby’s exact age in months, current temperature, and any other symptoms (feeding, hydration, behavior, breathing), and I can tailor the guidance and help you identify the most appropriate next steps.
