Fever

The normal body temperature for children ranges from 36°C (96.8°F) to 37°C (98.6°F). Anything over 37.7°C (100°F) is classed as a fever.
Anything under 35°C (95°F) is also a concern because if the body temperature falls below this level hypothermia can develop.

Remember that a child’s temperature will be higher if he has been running around and lower in the morning than the evening because of muscle activity throughout the day. If your child’s temperature is high, wait for 20 minutes and take it again to check it is still high.

How to take your child’s temperature
It is best not to rely on the hand-on-the-forehead method, and invest in a good children’s thermometer. There are lots of different types available and some are more suitable for children and babies than others.

Digital thermometers
These are probably the most accurate as they give high and low readings and can be inserted quickly into your child’s ear. They are probably the easiest as they can get a temperature reading almost straight away so if you have a wiggly, sick child, it will not be too disruptive for them. They are probably the most expensive thermometer available and need batteries to work. You can also place a digital thermometer in your child’s mouth under her tongue, but it is best to read the thermometer’s instructions on how to get the best reading.

Mercury thermometers
Mercury thermometers are unsuitable for small children to use as they have a tendency to bite the thermometer and object to it being in their mouths for a long time. For small children, it may be better to place the thermometer under their armpit for three minutes, but bear in mind this will give you a reading 0.6° C or 1°F below body temperature so you need to adjust accordingly.

Forehead thermometers
Forehead thermometers are also easier to use with small children and babies, but are the least accurate. Place the strip on your child’s forehead with the numbers and panels facing outwards. Try not to touch the strip too much with your own fingers. Press flat and leave in place for 15 seconds. The panels will light up the temperature of your child’s forehead.

What should I do if my baby has a fever?
Whilst a raised temperature is actually a good sign because it means your child is responding and fighting off infection, it also needs to be treated because a high temperature in young children can lead to convulsions.
If the temperature is high, remove clothes and bed sheets and sponge your child’s forehead down with e tepid sponge.
To reduce a temperature effectively you can give your child medicine. Children’s Paracetamol like Calpol, or Children’s Nurofen can reduce a temperature quickly. Make sure that the medicine is suitable for the age of your baby, and that you are administering the right dose for his age.

See our video, Basic Health Checks for more information on looking after your child.

If you would like to talk to other mums about what to do if your child has a fever, you can do this on the Baby Health area of the chat forum.