One trend we see during sick season is parents being concerned about fevers.
A fever is usually caused by infections from viruses (such as a cold or the flu) or bacteria (such as strep throat or some ear infections). The fever itself is not the disease, only a sign that the body’s defenses are trying to fight an infection.
What constitutes as a fever? A rectal temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
Once you’ve identified a fever, the most important things you can do is to improve your child’s comfort and make sure they get enough fluid, so they do not get dehydrated.
When is it time to call the DR?
-Child looks very ill, is unusually drowsy, or is very fussy
-Child has been in a very hot place, such as an overheated car
-Child has other symptoms, such as a stiff neck, severe headache, severe sore throat, severe ear pain, an unexplained rash, or repeated vomiting or diarrhea
-Child has signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, sunken soft spot or significantly fewer wet diapers and is not able to take in fluids
-Child has immune system problems, such as sickle cell disease or cancer, or is taking steroids
-Child is younger than 3 months (12 weeks) and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher
-Fever rises above 104°F (40°C) repeatedly for a child of any age
-Your child still “acts sick” once his fever is brought down.
-The fever persists for more than 24 hours in a child younger than 2 years or 3 days if older than 2
