My Baby Has a Fever — When Is It Serious?
Few things are more alarming for a new parent than a feverish baby. Your instinct is to do something — but it can be hard to know what. Here's what we tell families at Burds Family Practice every day.
First: What Is Actually a Fever?
A fever is a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Ear or forehead thermometers can be less accurate in young infants — when in doubt, take a rectal temperature for the most reliable reading.
Age Matters More Than the Number
How serious a fever is depends heavily on how old your child is:
Under 3 months: Any fever (100.4°F or higher) is a medical emergency. Go to the ER immediately. Do not wait.
3–6 months: Call your doctor right away, especially if the fever is 101°F or higher.
6–24 months: Call your doctor if the fever reaches 102°F or has lasted more than 2 days.
2 years and older: A fever is more concerning if it's very high (104°F+), lasts more than 3 days, or is accompanied by other worrying symptoms.
Go to the ER or Call 911 If Your Child Has a Fever AND:
Is under 3 months old
Has a stiff neck or is unusually difficult to wake
Has a purple or red rash that doesn't fade when pressed
Is having trouble breathing
Has a seizure
How to Manage a Fever at Home (For Older Infants and Children)
For babies over 6 months and children, you can use children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen (ibuprofen is not recommended under 6 months) to manage fever and discomfort. Always dose by weight, not age. Keep your child hydrated — offer fluids frequently. Light clothing helps; don't bundle them up.
Fever itself is not the enemy. It's the body's way of fighting infection. The goal is comfort and monitoring, not necessarily bringing the temperature to normal.
When in Doubt, Call Us
You know your baby. If something feels off — even if the temperature isn't sky-high — trust your gut and call. We would rather you reach out than worry alone.
Questions about your child's health? Call Burds Family Practice in Peosta at (563) 588-6659 or visit burdsfamilypractice.com to request an appointment. We're here for your family.