Fever in Children: Causes, Warning Signs, and How to Treat It

Fever in children is usually not a serious condition and often goes away on its own within a few days. If your child has a fever, it may indicate that their body is fighting an infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. However, you should be cautious if the fever lasts for several weeks or the temperature rises above 37.5°C (99.5°F). According to Health, here are the causes of fever in children, warning signs, and how to manage it.

Causes of Fever in Children

Children can develop fever for various reasons, including:

Viral infections: The most common cause, including colds, flu, strep throat, and other viral infections.
Bacterial infections: Ear infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and strep throat.
Vaccinations: Some children may have a mild fever after immunizations.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatic fever or juvenile arthritis.
Dehydration: Lack of fluids can also cause a fever.

Signs of Serious Fever in Children

Fever in babies 3 months or younger

Infants under 3 months should be examined by a doctor immediately if they develop a fever, as it may indicate a serious condition such as infection or dehydration.

If the fever occurs after vaccination and your child is still active and wants to breastfeed, it is usually not dangerous.

Reduced awareness or lethargy

High fever may cause a child to appear extremely weak or sleepy and unresponsive to voice or touch. If this occurs, the child should see a doctor immediately.

Febrile seizures

Most common in children 12–18 months old.
Usually not an emergency if the seizure lasts less than 2–3 minutes and occurs only once in 24 hours.
First aid at home: Place the child on their side to prevent choking and monitor the duration.
Seek medical help immediately if:
- Seizures last longer than 5 minutes.
- They occur multiple times in 24 hours.
- The child shows pale or bluish skin.

High fever above 40°C (104°F)

Requires immediate medical evaluation to determine the cause.
Fevers above 39–40°C can increase the risk of febrile seizures.

Fever lasting more than 5 days

Fever usually improves within five days, especially if treated with paracetamol.
If it persists beyond five days despite medication, consult a doctor.

Fever with vomiting or diarrhea

Increases the risk of dehydration.
Ensure the child gets enough fluids (breast milk, formula, oral rehydration).

Signs of dehydration

Dehydration can make it harder for a child’s body to regulate temperature, worsening fever.
Causes include vomiting, diarrhea, heatstroke, or prolonged fever.
Immediate medical attention is needed if dehydration is suspected.

Neck stiffness

Fever with neck stiffness may indicate meningitis, a serious condition requiring urgent medical attention.

Difficulty breathing

Fever accompanied by rapid or labored breathing could indicate severe respiratory infection or pneumonia.
Other signs in infants: bluish skin/lips, feeding difficulties, or persistent cough.

Rash

Fever with a rash may suggest diseases like measles, chickenpox, dengue, flu, or meningitis.

Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)

May indicate infection, liver problems, or red blood cell breakdown.

First Aid During a Febrile Seizure

Place the child in a safe, open space.
Keep them away from sharp, hard, or electrical objects.
Turn the child onto their side to prevent choking.
Do not put objects in their mouth.
Do not give water during the seizure.
Do not restrain the child; forceful restraint can cause injury.
Monitor the seizure and its duration.
After the seizure, take the child to the nearest hospital and inform the doctor of any previous episodes.

Summary:

Fever in children is usually manageable, but watch for warning signs like high temperature, prolonged fever, seizures, dehydration, breathing difficulty, neck stiffness, rashes, or jaundice. Always seek medical attention if symptoms indicate serious illness.