Child Fever Guide — When to Worry | Dr. Wasif Iqbal Pediatrician Faisalabad

Fever Level Checker

Temperature

Unit

Child's Age

Below 38°C

Normal

No fever — monitor for symptoms

38 – 38.9°C

Low Fever

Monitor at home, give fluids

39 – 39.9°C

High Fever

Give fever medicine, call doctor

40°C+

Very High

Seek medical care immediately

Age Group	Call Doctor If Fever Is	Emergency Signs
Under 3 months	38°C (100.4°F) or higher — ANY fever	Any fever = Emergency
3–6 months	38.5°C or higher	Irritable, lethargic, not feeding
6–24 months	39°C or lasting more than 2 days	Rash, won't eat, very irritable
2–5 years	39.5°C or lasting more than 3 days	Stiff neck, won't drink, ear pain
5+ years	40°C or lasting more than 4 days	Severe headache, sore throat, rash

✅ DO — Home Treatment

💧

Give plenty of fluids — water, ORS, milk, soups

💊

Give Paracetamol (15mg/kg every 6 hours) or Ibuprofen (for 6+ months, 10mg/kg every 8 hours)

🧥

Dress in light, comfortable clothing — don't over-bundle

🛏️

Ensure your child rests in a cool, comfortable room

🌡️

Monitor temperature every 4 hours and keep a record

🧽

Lukewarm sponging on forehead, armpits, groin helps reduce fever

❌ DON'T — Common Mistakes

🚫

Never give Aspirin to children — it can cause Reye's syndrome

🚫

Don't use cold/ice water for sponging — it can cause shivering and raise temperature

🚫

Don't over-dress or wrap in heavy blankets during fever

🚫

Don't give antibiotics without doctor's prescription

🚫

Don't force feed — offer small amounts frequently

Worried about your child's fever?

Dr. Wasif Iqbal — FCPS Pediatrician · Available 9AM–11PM · Response in 5 mins