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Child fever: what matters

The temperature is only one part of the picture. Age, alertness, breathing and hydration are also important.

Last reviewed: September 2026 · General education only

What you can observe

  • how alert and responsive the child is;
  • whether breathing is comfortable;
  • whether the child is drinking and urinating;
  • how long the fever has lasted and whether other symptoms are developing.

Seek prompt medical care for

Fever in a young infant, difficulty breathing, seizure, altered consciousness, a non-blanching rash, severe dehydration, or a child who looks seriously unwell.

If you are worried about a baby under 3 months with fever, seek medical assessment promptly rather than waiting for the fever to settle.