Baby Fever: Symptoms, Temperature, and When to Consult a Doctor

It can be very concerning for parents when their baby develops a fever. Especially for first-time parents, questions like "What is the right baby fever temperature?" and "What to do when my baby has a high fever?" are common. If your baby’s fever hits 38°C or higher for infants younger than three months, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately. 

Let’s look at the steps and when to consult a doctor.

How to Take Temperature Readings for Children

Fever in babies occurs when the body’s internal ‘thermostat’ or hypothalamus in the brain raises the body temperature above normal levels – typically as a natural defence to fight an infection.

A fever in babies is typically considered when their temperature hits 38°C (or 100.4°F) or higher..

Parents are recommended to use digital thermometers to take readings, as these are the quickest and most accurate.

• For newborns up to three months old, it is best to take temperatures rectally (in the anus).
• For infants aged between three months and three years, it is recommended to get readings rectally, from the ears or armpits.
• For children aged five and above, it can be done orally, from the ears or armpits.

Common Causes of Fever in Children

Some of the most common causes of fever in children in Malaysia are:

• Viral or bacterial infections
• Baby fever resulting from immunisation
• Teething in babies
• Malignancy or inflammatory conditions like Kawasaki Disease or connective tissue disease 

When to Consult a Doctor for Baby Fever

As fevers are a natural part of growing up, it is important for parents to know when they can manage them at home and when they should seek urgent medical advice.

You should consult your doctor immediately if:

• Your baby’s fever temperature hits 38°C or higher for infants younger than three months.
• The temperature hits 39°C for an older child.

Symptoms to look out for are those that are unlike any your child has had before, such as:

• Refusal of feeds
• Inactivity
• Lasting diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Showing signs of dehydration - lethargy, inattentiveness, dry mouth, reduced peeing, or lack of tears while crying
• Irritable
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Have paler than usual skin colour
• Experience earaches, sore throat, rashes
• Pain while urinating

Should the issues above persist, and the fever does not subside after 48 hours, or if your child has a chronic medical problem, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Children can develop terrible seizures if their fever is high and remains untreated. The two most serious infections are meningitis and septicaemia (blood infection) – and while uncommon, symptoms can quickly worsen, and urgent medical attention is needed.

But sometimes, a fever can be caused by something as simple as overdressing (particularly in young infants) or the child being in a hot environment.

Effective Home Management for Baby Fever

If your baby’s fever isn’t causing serious symptoms and your child is still active, playing, and alert, it’s likely not a cause for concern. Baby fever can often be managed at home if the child is eating and drinking well and looking better once the baby's fever settles.

If your feverish child is fussy or uncomfortable, they can be given paracetamol and fluids such as water, soups, juices, ice-lollies, or jello to avoid dehydration. Do not force them to eat if they do not feel like it, and let them eat what they want in moderation.

Ensure they get adequate rest, so keeping them out of school, nursery, or daycare is best. Keep them in a cool environment and avoid under or over-wrapping them in clothing.

Make an appointment for Baby Fever Treatment at Gleneagles Hospital Penang

Baby fever is common, and most children will recover and return to their normal selves in just a few days. However, for infants younger than three months or children with constant diarrhoea or vomiting, it is better to be safe and consult a doctor.

Get in touch with us to find out more about our Paediatric Services at Gleneagles Hospital Penang. A dedicated team of paediatricians is ready to provide medical assistance if your child has a fever and related conditions.