By Registered Health Visitor – Julia Headland
Fever is one of the most common reasons parents seek medical care for their children. While it can be concerning, a fever is typically the body’s natural response to infection. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical attention can help parents manage fevers in children under five more effectively.
What is a Fever?
A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, usually in response to an infection. In children, a fever is generally defined as a temperature of 38°C or higher. Fevers are not illnesses themselves but indicators that the immune system is actively fighting off infections.
Common Causes of Fever in Young Children:
- Viral Infections – The most common cause of fever in young children is viral illnesses such as colds, flu, and hand, foot, and mouth disease.
- Bacterial Infections – Some bacterial infections, such as strep throat, ear infections, and urinary tract infections, can cause fever.
- Teething – While teething may cause a slight increase in temperature, it is unlikely to result in a high fever.
- Vaccinations – Some children develop a mild fever after receiving vaccinations, which is a normal immune response.
- Other Inflammatory Conditions – Occasionally, conditions such as autoimmune disorders or heat exhaustion can lead to fever.
Symptoms to Watch For:
While fever itself is not harmful, it can be accompanied by other symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition:
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability or excessive crying
- Lethargy or difficulty waking up
- Rapid breathing or trouble breathing
- Seizures (febrile seizures)
- Rash
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
When to Seek Medical Help
It is important to know when a fever requires medical attention. Parents should contact a healthcare provider if:
- The child is younger than three months old and has a fever of 38°C or higher.
- The fever persists for more than three days in a child under five.
- The child has difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, a severe headache, or a rash.
- The fever is accompanied by seizures.
- The child shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, reduced urination).
Managing Fever at Home
Most fevers can be managed at home with simple care techniques:
- Keep the child hydrated by offering plenty of fluids, breast milk, or formula.
- Dress the child in lightweight clothing and maintain a comfortable room temperature.
- Offer fever-reducing medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen (only if advised by a doctor and in the correct dosage).
- Allow the child to rest and sleep.
Final Thoughts
Fever in children under five is a common occurrence and, in most cases, not a cause for alarm. However, knowing when to seek medical care and how to manage fever at home can help parents navigate this common childhood condition with confidence. If you are ever in doubt, it is always best to consult with a GP or NHS111 to ensure your child’s well-being.
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For those people I have not yet met, my name is Julia Headland and I am a registered health visitor and registered general nurse with a degree in public health and over 20 years of experience. I am very pleased to work alongside the Norfolk House Nursery team.
You can arrange to meet me for confidential advice or guidance about your child’s health or development; during the pandemic these consultations are being conducted by Zoom or telephone.
My consultations are free of charge and they are confidential.
You can book an appointment with me via the Norfolk House Nursery staff.
You can also follow me on social media:
Facebook: @JuliaHeadlandPrivateHealthVisitor
Instagram: jh_privatehealthvisitor