Fever is the body's natural response while fighting infection; it isn't a disease on its own. Still, in babies the age and accompanying symptoms determine when you need to see a doctor.
This content is educational and does not replace emergency medical evaluation. If you're worried, don't wait — contact your pediatrician or emergency care.
What is a fever?
Generally a body temperature of 38°C or above counts as fever. In babies the most reliable measurement is the method your doctor recommends. How high the fever is doesn't always reflect how serious the illness is; the baby's overall state matters more.
The most critical age rule
- In a baby under 3 months, a temperature of 38°C or above is an emergency. Seek care without delay. At this age infections can progress quickly.
- For fever at 3–6 months, also consult a doctor with a low threshold.
- In older babies, the decision depends on duration and accompanying symptoms.
See a doctor / emergency now — red flags
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months.
- Trouble breathing, rapid/wheezy breathing, blue tinge.
- Hard to wake, excessively sleepy, very floppy.
- A seizure (convulsion).
- A rash that won't fade or spreads (urgent if it doesn't blanch under pressure).
- Constant crying or, conversely, unresponsiveness; refusing to feed.
- Markedly reduced urine output, dry mouth (signs of dehydration).
What you can do at home
- Support fluid intake (breast milk/formula).
- Don't overdress the baby; keep the environment cool and comfortable.
- Fever-reducing medicines are used by age and weight, on a doctor's advice; dose and drug choice matter in babies. Aspirin is not given.
- Sponging with cold water/alcohol is not recommended.
Key point
The aim isn't to "bring down" the fever but to assess its cause and the baby's state. When in doubt, especially in young babies, consulting a doctor is always the right call.