This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.

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Baby Fever

Fever is not an illness but a natural defence reaction. In babies under 3 months, any fever above 38°C (100.4°F) should be evaluated by a doctor.

Possible Causes

1Infections (cold, stomach bug, urinary tract infection)
2Teething (mild temperature up to 38°C/100.4°F, NOT high fever)
3Vaccine reaction (normal 24-48 hours after vaccination)
4Overdressing or overheating
5Rarely: bacterial infections (ear infection, pneumonia)

What You Can Do

Fever-reducing medicine: paracetamol (from 3 months) or ibuprofen (from 6 months) — dose by weight
Cool compresses only above 39°C and only when hands and feet are warm
Plenty of fluids: breastfeed more often or offer bottle
Light clothing, room temperature 18-20°C
Monitor temperature regularly (rectal is most accurate for babies)

When to See a Doctor

Baby under 3 months with fever above 38°C (100.4°F) → see doctor IMMEDIATELY
Fever above 40°C (104°F) at any age
Fever lasting more than 3 days
Baby is lethargic, refuses to drink, cries inconsolably
Non-blanching rash (glass test)
Neck stiffness or bulging fontanelle
Febrile seizure (twitching, loss of consciousness)

Age-Specific Notes

Newborns (0-3 months): Any fever above 38°C is an emergency. The immune system is still immature. Infants (3-6 months): Fever above 39°C should be evaluated. Babies (6-12 months): Frequent fevers from teething and infections are normal, but watch for warning signs. Toddlers (12-24 months): Higher fevers are better tolerated; overall condition matters more than the number.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what temperature does a baby have a fever?

A baby has a fever at 38.5°C (101.3°F) and above. Between 37.5°C and 38.5°C is elevated temperature. Rectal measurement is most accurate. Ear thermometers are unreliable for babies under 6 months.

Can I give my baby ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is approved for babies from 6 months and at least 5 kg. Paracetamol can be given from 3 months. Dosage is based on weight, not age. Ask your paediatrician if unsure.

Do I need to see a doctor for every fever?

Not for every fever. For babies under 3 months — ALWAYS. From 3 months: if fever rises above 39°C, lasts more than 3 days, or your baby seems lethargic. Trust your instinct — you know your baby best.

Does teething really cause fever?

Teething can cause a mild temperature rise up to about 38°C, but NOT high fever. If your teething baby has a fever above 38.5°C, there's likely an infection — get it checked.

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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.