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Fever, Age 3 and Younger - Check Your Symptoms

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Note:
  • All temperature guidelines listed in this topic are rectal temperatures.
  • A child has a fever when his or her temperature is 100.4F or higher, measured rectally.
  • For information about taking accurate temperatures, see the topic Body Temperature.
  • If you are not able to measure your child's temperature, look for other symptoms and answer the questions below.
  • If a child has a fever seizure that lasts less than 3 minutes, go to the topic Fever Seizures.
Yes

Does your child have a fever and any signs of a serious infection?

Yes

Does your child have a fever and breathing problems?

Yes

Does your child have a fever and pain? See evaluating pain in a child.

Yes

Does your child have a fever and a new skin problem?

Yes

Do you know or think your child has an extremely high fever[ or higher]?

Yes

Does your baby younger than 3 months have a fever?

Yes

Does your child older than 3 months have a fever?

Yes

Does your child have a fever and signs of mild to moderate dehydration?

Yes

Do you think your child's fever may be caused by a medicine?

Yes

Does your child age 3 months to 3 years have ongoing or frequent fevers?

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your child's symptoms.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 28, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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