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At Ally Medical Emergency Room, our emergency physicians regularly evaluate children with fevers to determine whether treatment or further testing is needed.

“Fevers can look very different depending on a child’s age. Understanding what’s normal, and when it’s not, helps parents make confident decisions about seeking care,” Dr. Jeremy Kenter, Chief Medical Officer, said.

What Is Considered a Fever?

In general, a fever is defined as a body temperature of  100.4°F (38°C) or higher. However, how concerning a fever is depends heavily on a child’s age, symptoms, and overall behavior. It is especially dependent on if they are vaccinated or not!

How Fever Varies by Age

Infants Under 2 Months

Fevers in very young infants require special attention.

• Any fever of 100.4°F or higher should be evaluated immediately

• Infants may not show obvious signs of illness

• Even low-grade fevers can signal serious infections

Parents should seek emergency care right away for infants in this age group.

Infants 2–6 Months

In this age range:

• Fevers above 102°F may require evaluation, especially if the child is unvaccinated

• Irritability, poor feeding, or lethargy are concerning signs

• Changes in behavior may matter more than the number alone

Children 6 Months to 3 Years

For older infants and toddlers:

• Fevers over 102–103°F may occur with common viral illnesses

• Seek care if fever lasts more than 48 hours

• Watch closely for dehydration, difficulty breathing, or persistent fussiness

Children Over 3 Years

In children over three:

• High fevers may be tolerated if the child is otherwise active and drinking fluids

• Fevers lasting more than 48 hours should be evaluated

• Higher fevers paired with other symptoms may require ER care

When a Fever Requires Emergency Care

Regardless of age, you should seek emergency care if a fever is accompanied by:

• Difficulty breathing

• Severe headache or stiff neck

• Confusion or unusual behavior

• Persistent vomiting or dehydration

• Rash that spreads quickly

• Seizures

• A child who is difficult to wake or not responding normally

“Parents know their children best. If something doesn’t feel right, emergency evaluation is always the safest option,” Dr. Jeremy Kenter emphasized.

What to Expect at the ER

At Ally Medical ER, children with fever may receive:

• A thorough physical exam

• Rapid viral or bacterial testing when appropriate

• Blood or urine testing if needed

• Imaging such as X-rays if complications are suspected

• IV fluids or medications to reduce fever and treat infection

Our team works quickly to identify the cause of the fever and begin appropriate care.

Managing Fever at Home

For mild fevers in children who are otherwise well:

• Encourage fluids

• Dress children lightly

• Use fever-reducing medication as directed

• Monitor temperature and behavior closely

If symptoms worsen or persist, emergency care is recommended.

Related Reads from Ally Medical ER

• Explaining an ER Visit to Your Child: A Doctor’s Perspective

• Persistent Vomiting in Kids: When to Seek Emergency Care

• Why Choose an Emergency Room for Pediatric Care? A Parent’s Guide to Quality Treatment