Malcolm Rivera
Fevers in babies are common and not always a cause for concern. A baby's average temperature is 98.6 °F, with a fever defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4 °F or higher, or an armpit temperature of 99 °F or higher. A low-grade or mild fever in babies is often considered to be between 100 and 102 °F. In most cases, a fever means the body is fighting an illness, and the immune system is working harder. While fevers can be beneficial, helping the body fight infection, it is important to know when to seek medical advice. If a baby is less than three months old and has a fever, medical attention is recommended. For older babies, keeping them comfortable with light clothing and enough fluids is advised, and medical advice should be sought if the fever is above 102 °F.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Normal body temperature for a baby | 97°F - 98.6°F (37°C) |
| Low-grade fever | 98.6°F - 100.3°F |
| Mild fever | 99.5°F - 102.2°F |
| Low-grade/mild fever | 100°F - 102°F |
| Fever requiring medical attention | 102°F and above |
| Fever requiring immediate medical attention | 104°F and above |
| Fever requiring emergency care | Below 97°F (36.5°C) |
| Fever lasting more than | 5 days |
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What You'll Learn
Temperature ranges for low-grade fever
A baby's normal temperature usually averages 98.6 °F, but it can vary throughout the day and differ by age, activity level, and other factors. A baby's temperature can be taken in several ways, including rectally, orally, in the ear, under the arm, or at the temples. Rectal thermometers are the most accurate, especially for infants and young children.
A fever in babies is typically defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4 °F or higher or an armpit temperature of 99 °F or higher. However, the definition of a fever can vary depending on the type of thermometer used.
Low-grade or mild fevers in babies are generally described by the following ranges:
- 98.6 °F to 100.3 °F
- 99.5 °F to 102.2 °F
- 100 °F to 102 °F
Most doctors consider a temperature between 100 °F and 102 °F as a mild or low-grade fever. Fevers within this range can be helpful as they indicate that the body is fighting an infection, and the immune system is working harder.
If your baby has a mild fever but is still eating, drinking, sleeping, and acting relatively normal, there is usually no cause for immediate alarm. However, if your baby's temperature rises above 102 °F, it is recommended to call your healthcare provider. Additionally, if your baby is under 3 months old and has a fever, it is considered more serious, and you should seek medical attention right away.
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When to seek medical attention
A fever in babies is one of the most common symptoms new parents face. A fever isn't an illness, but a symptom of one. It is the body's way of fighting an illness. In most cases, a fever means that the baby has a cold, flu, or other viral infection.
- If your baby is younger than 3 months old and has a fever, contact their doctor right away. Fevers in babies during the first 3 months of life could be due to a serious illness such as sepsis or meningitis.
- If your baby is between 3 and 6 months old and has a rectal temperature of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher, seek medical attention.
- If your baby is 6 to 24 months old and has a fever above 102°F (38.9°C) for more than a day or two with no other symptoms, contact a healthcare provider.
- If your baby has a fever that has lasted longer than 24 hours or occurs regularly, or if fever reducers aren't working, seek medical advice.
- If your baby is dehydrated, showing signs such as no tears when crying, a dry mouth, and a lack of urine for more than 8 hours, contact a doctor.
- If your baby is irritable, lethargic, or seems very ill, seek medical attention.
- If your baby has other symptoms such as a rash, poor feeding, vomiting, or a stiff neck, confusion, or headache, contact a healthcare provider.
While these guidelines provide a general framework, it's important to trust your instincts as a parent. If you are concerned or have questions, don't hesitate to contact your paediatrician or healthcare provider for guidance and advice.
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How to take a baby's temperature
A baby's normal temperature averages 98.6 °Fahrenheit, but this can vary slightly from baby to baby. A fever is typically defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4 °F or higher, or an armpit temperature of 99 °F or higher. It's important to remember that a fever is not an illness, but a symptom of one. It's usually an indication that the body is fighting an illness and the immune system is working harder.
Rectal Thermometer
This is the preferred method for newborns up to 3-month-olds, and it remains the top choice for babies up to 3 years old. It is considered the most accurate method for young children. Here's how to do it:
- Consider using a disposable thermometer probe cover for easy clean-up and hygiene.
- Keep your arm along the baby's back or have someone assist you in holding the baby still.
- Slowly and gently insert the thermometer just far enough for the bulb to pass the anal sphincter (about 1/2 inch).
- Remove the thermometer after you hear the proper number of beeps or when it signals that it's ready (usually about 30 to 40 seconds).
- Rinse the thermometer with cool water, then wipe it with rubbing alcohol. Rinse again.
Temporal Artery (Forehead) Thermometer
This method can be used as an alternative for newborns to 3-month-olds and is a good second choice for 3- to 6-month-olds. Forehead thermometers must be digital, as forehead strips are not accurate.
Tympanic (Ear) Thermometers
This method can be used for babies who are at least 6 months old. Young babies' ear canals are too narrow for this method. To use this method:
- Gently pull the ear back and up to open the ear canal.
- Carefully insert the thermometer until it beeps.
- Remove the thermometer and wipe the sensor with rubbing alcohol.
Under-the-Armpit (Axillary) Method
This method is considered the least accurate, but it can be used for babies 3 months and older. It involves placing the thermometer in the baby's armpit and waiting for the reading.
It's important to note that rectal and forehead temperatures can read slightly higher, while ear and armpit temperatures may read slightly lower. Always use digital thermometers for children, and avoid old mercury thermometers due to the risk of poisoning if they break. Additionally, be sure to follow the specific instructions that come with your chosen thermometer.
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What causes fever in babies
A baby's normal temperature averages 98.6 °F. A fever is a rectal temperature of 100.4 °F or higher or an armpit temperature of 99 °F or above. A fever in a baby is one of the most common symptoms new parents face. Fortunately, it's not necessarily a sign of anything serious.
Fever in newborns happens because a newborn's temperature regulation system is immature. The three main causes of fever in newborns and infants are infections, overheating, and dehydration. Infections are the most common cause of fever. This could be a viral or bacterial infection. Viruses cause ten times more infections than bacteria. Bacterial infections include urinary tract infections, which are common in girls, meningitis, and sepsis.
Overheating can also cause fever. This can happen when a baby is near a heater or bundled under layers of clothing and blankets. It can also occur in a heated car, so never leave a baby in a hot car, even for a minute, as their temperature can rise quickly and cause heat stroke and death. Dehydration is another cause of fever. When a baby does not get enough fluids, their temperature can rise. This may happen around the second or third day after birth. If fluids are not replaced with increased feedings, dehydration can develop and cause serious complications.
Fevers in babies can also be a harmless reaction to a vaccine or a result of a harmless viral illness like a cold.
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How to treat low-grade fever at home
A baby's normal temperature averages 98.6 °F (37 °C). A fever is a rectal temperature of 100.4 °F (37.8 °C) or higher or an armpit temperature of 99 °F (37.2 °C) or higher. Fevers in babies are usually a symptom of the body fighting off illness, and the immune system working harder.
If your baby is younger than 3 months old and has a fever, contact their doctor right away. Newborn fever can be a sign of a serious bacterial infection, such as sepsis or meningitis, and requires immediate medical attention.
For older babies, you can try the following methods to treat a low-grade fever at home:
- Bathe them with lukewarm water. Always check the temperature of the water on your wrist before washing your baby.
- Dress your infant in lightweight clothing.
- Give your baby enough fluids to avoid dehydration. These should be breast milk or formula. If they are older than 6 months, they can drink Pedialyte.
- If your baby is older than 2 months and your doctor approves, you can give them children's acetaminophen. Children over 6 months can take children's ibuprofen. Never give babies aspirin due to the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but dangerous condition. Always ask your doctor about dosage and read the package instructions before giving your child any medication.
- If your baby is not uncomfortable or fussy due to the fever, you may not need to give them medication.
If your baby has a fever for more than 3 days, or the fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, chest pain, rash, throat swelling, or a stiff neck, call your doctor.
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Frequently asked questions
A fever in babies is usually considered a rectal temperature of 100.4° F or higher, or an armpit temperature of 99° F or higher.
A low-grade or mild fever in babies is generally considered to be between 100° and 102° F.
A fever is not an illness but a symptom of one. It is usually a sign that the baby's body is fighting an illness and their immune system is working harder. Common causes include viral or bacterial infections, such as the flu or a cold.
If your baby is under 3 months old and has a fever, seek medical attention immediately. For older babies, a fever above 102° F that lasts longer than a day or two generally warrants a call to the doctor. Additionally, if your baby is not eating, sleeping, or acting normally, seek medical advice.
It is important to keep your baby comfortable, well-hydrated, and dressed in light clothing. You can also try bathing them in lukewarm water and giving them extra fluids to help lower the fever. If your baby is older than 2 months, you may give them children's acetaminophen, and if they are over 6 months, they can take children's ibuprofen. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance and dosage recommendations.
