My child has a fever — what can you do (and what not)
Your baby feels warm, has red cheeks, and isn't feeding well. A fever in children can be quite frightening—especially if their body is glowing and you don't know what's wrong. However, a fever is usually no cause for alarm. It's the body's natural response to an infection. This blog explains what you should and shouldn't do if you have a fever, and when it's wise to call your doctor.
What is a fever anyway?
A fever is defined as a body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or higher . This is usually caused by a virus, sometimes by bacteria. Your child may also experience a temporary fever after vaccination – this is harmless and will go away on its own.
A fever isn't an illness in itself, but a sign that the immune system is functioning properly. The body deliberately raises its temperature to fight pathogens. Even a high fever, up to about 41 degrees Celsius (106 degrees Fahrenheit), is safe for the body. The number on the thermometer, therefore, tells you less than your child's behavior.
When is a fever harmless?
You usually don't need to worry if:
- your child feels warm but is still cheerful or playful
- your baby has drinking moments and urinates regularly
- your child is a bit lethargic or sleepy, but can be woken up easily
- the fever lasts less than three days
Let your child go at their own pace. Bed rest isn't necessary: if they want to play, they can. Appetite is often lower with a fever, but that's okay – drinking is more important.
What can you do in case of a fever?
- Give your child plenty to drink . Offer small amounts often, especially with babies.
- Dress your child lightly . A romper or thin sheet is sufficient.
- If necessary, use paracetamol for pain or if your child is clearly unwell – not to reduce the fever.
- Measure the temperature with a reliable thermometer, but do not do this too often (maximum 3 times a day).
- Preferably let your child sleep in a cool, quiet room.
Don't try to actively cool the body with cold cloths or baths. This causes stress and won't help with the fever. The body regulates its own temperature.
When should you go to the doctor?
Call your GP or the GP post if your baby or child:
- is younger than three months and has a fever
- is weak or difficult to wake up
- discolored blue or gray
- becomes sicker quickly or stops responding as normal
- hardly drinks or urinates
- get dark spots on the skin that cannot be removed (glass test)
Trust your gut: if something doesn't feel right, that's reason enough to call. You know your child best.
Are antibiotics useful for fever?
In most cases, no. Fever in children is almost always caused by a virus , and antibiotics are ineffective against that. Antibiotics are only necessary if the doctor determines it's a bacterial infection. Unnecessary use can actually be harmful and leads to resistance. For pain (such as a sore throat or earache), adequate pain relief with paracetamol is usually sufficient.
What if your baby drinks or eats poorly?
This is normal during a fever. Their appetite will return on its own once they feel better. As long as they're drinking enough, there's no need to worry. With bottle feeding, you can offer smaller portions more frequently.
Is a high fever dangerous?
Even a high fever isn't necessarily dangerous. Your child's behavior is especially important. A child with a temperature of 39.5°C who is still playing and alert is usually less ill than a child with a temperature of 38°C who is lethargic and unresponsive. So don't just look at the thermometer; pay particular attention to your child.
When the temperature suddenly rises
In some children, the temperature rises rapidly, which can lead to a febrile seizure. This looks frightening, but is usually harmless. A separate blog post explains exactly what happens and what you should do.
Also read: what to do in case of a febrile seizure
In summary:
- Fever is a sign that the body is working
- Fever itself is not dangerous – behavior and alertness are more important
- Provide drinks, rest and proximity
- Only use paracetamol if you are in pain
- Call your doctor if you experience any warning signs or if you feel that something is not right.
Fever is not an enemy, but a helper for the body. Stay with your child, stay calm, and give them time to recover.
Frequently asked questions about fever in your child
Should I lower my baby's fever?
No, that's not necessary. Fever is a normal bodily reaction and helps fight infection. Only if your child is in pain or clearly uncomfortable should you give paracetamol at the correct dosage for age and weight.
When is a high fever dangerous in a child?
A high fever in itself is usually not dangerous. Call the doctor if your child is difficult to wake , turns blue , stops drinking or urinating , or if you notice your child becoming sicker quickly. You should also always call the doctor if a baby under 3 months has a fever .
My baby feels hot but doesn't seem sick — should I be worried?
Not necessarily. A baby's temperature can fluctuate due to warm weather, clothing, or activity. Use a reliable thermometer: a fever only occurs at 38°C or higher . As long as your baby is alert, drinking, and responsive, this is reassuring.
Can my child go outside or to school with a fever?
This is fine if your child needs it. Bed rest isn't necessary. Let your child go at their own pace and dress lightly. Above all, make sure they have plenty to drink and rest in between.
What should I do if my child becomes weak or blue due to a fever?
This could indicate a febrile seizure or other serious reaction. Call your doctor or 911 immediately if your child becomes weak, unresponsive, or turns blue. In most cases, your child will recover quickly, but it's important to have a doctor monitor the situation. Read more about this in our blog post , "Febrile seizure in your child – what happens and what to do."
How often can I measure my temperature?
A maximum of three times a day is sufficient. It's not necessary to measure constantly; just pay attention to how your child feels and behaves. Behavior tells you more than the thermometer.
Do cold washcloths or baths help reduce fever?
This isn't necessary and can even be unpleasant for your child. The body regulates its own temperature. Don't actively cool them down with water or cold towels; it's better to provide rest and plenty of fluids.