Fever in Babies and Toddlers: What to Do, and When to Call the Doctor

A hot forehead at bedtime sends every mother looking for the thermometer. Most fevers are the body doing its job against an ordinary virus, and they pass in a few days. What matters is your child's age, how they're behaving, and a short list of signs that mean you call now.

The short version

A fever is 38°C or higher. Under three months, call your doctor straight away. Older than that, watch how your child is behaving more than the number. Dress them lightly, offer drinks often, skip the cold sponge, and give medicine only if they're miserable — never both at once. A rash that doesn't fade under a glass, trouble breathing, or a child who is floppy or hard to wake means you call now.

The Journal is written by mothers, for mothers. It is peer-to-peer knowledge, not medical advice. If your child seems unwell, call your doctor. You will never be wrong to.