What temperature counts as a fever in a child?

A fever is generally a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. The exact number matters less than how your child is behaving — a child who is alert and drinking is usually less concerning than a listless one with a lower reading.

When should I take my child to the doctor for a fever?

Seek urgent care for any fever in a baby under 3 months, a fever above 39°C that won't come down, a rash that doesn't fade under pressure, difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, persistent vomiting, or a child who is unusually drowsy or hard to rouse.

Is this fever serious? A calm guide to when to worry

Published January 8, 2026

When your child is hot, flushed, and miserable, it's hard to think clearly. But fever is the body doing its job — fighting infection — and the temperature reading alone rarely tells you how worried to be. What matters far more is how your child looks and acts.

Watch the child, not the thermometer

A child with a high reading who is still drinking, responsive, and settling with cuddles is usually weathering a normal infection. A child with a lower reading who is floppy, refusing fluids, or hard to wake needs attention regardless of the number.

Red flags — get help now

Call your doctor or emergency services if you see any of these:

Any fever in a baby under 3 months old.
A rash that doesn't fade when you press a glass against it.
Trouble breathing, a stiff neck, or a bulging soft spot.
Persistent vomiting, no wet nappies, or a dry mouth.
A child who is unusually drowsy or won't wake properly.

What helps in the meantime

Keep fluids going in small, frequent sips, dress them lightly, and use weight-appropriate paracetamol or ibuprofen for discomfort — not to chase the number down. Trust your instinct: if something feels wrong, that's reason enough to call.

Frequently asked

What temperature counts as a fever in a child?: A fever is generally a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. The exact number matters less than how your child is behaving — a child who is alert and drinking is usually less concerning than a listless one with a lower reading.
When should I take my child to the doctor for a fever?: Seek urgent care for any fever in a baby under 3 months, a fever above 39°C that won't come down, a rash that doesn't fade under pressure, difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, persistent vomiting, or a child who is unusually drowsy or hard to rouse.