A high temperature is very common in babies and young children. Most of the time it is caused by an infection that gets better on its own, but in young babies it needs to be taken seriously. This guide explains when to treat it at home and when to get medical help.
What counts as a high temperature?
In children, a high temperature is 38°C (100.4°F) or more. A digital thermometer under the armpit is a simple way to check a baby’s temperature. Your baby may also feel hot to touch, look flushed or be sweaty.
Get medical advice urgently if your baby
- Is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38°C or higher
- Is 3 to 6 months old and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
- Has a high temperature with other signs of illness, such as a rash
- Has had a high temperature for 5 days or more
- Is not feeding, has fewer wet nappies than usual, or seems unusually sleepy or irritable
Call your local emergency number if your baby
- Has a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it
- Is struggling to breathe, or is very floppy or hard to wake
- Has a fit (seizure), or has blue, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue
Caring for your child at home
- Give plenty of fluids. If your baby is breastfed, keep breastfeeding as normal.
- Dress them in light clothes and keep the room comfortably cool. Do not sponge them with cold water.
- Check on them regularly, including during the night.
Fever medicines
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help if your child is distressed or uncomfortable; the aim is to make them feel better, not just to bring the number down. Always check the packet or ask a pharmacist that the medicine and dose are right for your child’s age and weight.
- Do not give paracetamol to a baby under 2 months unless a doctor tells you to.
- Do not give ibuprofen to a baby under 3 months or weighing under 5 kg, or to a child who has chickenpox or is dehydrated.
- Do not alternate the two medicines unless a doctor or nurse advises it.
Not sure how old your baby is in weeks? Use our Baby Age Calculator.
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