Fever in babies and children
How worried to be about a fever depends mostly on a child's age and how they're acting, not just the number. A fever is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
Go to the ER or call 911 if
- Any fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby under 3 months
- Trouble breathing, or very fast breathing
- Hard to wake, limp, or not acting like themselves even when the fever comes down
- Signs of dehydration: no wet diaper in 8 hours, no tears, very dry mouth
- A seizure, a stiff neck, or a purple or blood-spot rash
What urgent care can usually do
- Check ears, throat and lungs
- Flu, COVID, strep and urine testing
- Advise on fluids and comfort care
- School and daycare notes
By age
- Under 3 months: any fever of 100.4°F or higher needs an emergency room, even if the baby seems fine.
- 3 to 6 months: call the pediatrician the same day, or go to urgent care if they can't see the baby.
- 6 months to 2 years: see a clinician if the fever lasts more than a day, or sooner if your child seems sick.
- Over 2 years: a fever lasting more than 3 days, or one that keeps coming back, should be checked.
- Any age: a fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, or any fever with the warning signs above, needs care now.
What to bring
- Temperatures and how you took them
- When the fever started
- Any medicine given and the time
- Vaccination record
Nearest clinics
Sorted by distance only. Call ahead to confirm hours and services.
Other guides
General information to help you choose where to go. It isn't a diagnosis or medical advice. A clinician will decide on testing and treatment. Last reviewed October 2026. Editorial standards