By Dr. Ama Osei · November 4, 2026
A fever is a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher, and in most children over three months it is a sign the immune system is working. The number on the thermometer matters less than how your child is acting.
A child who drinks, plays a little once the fever comes down and still makes wet diapers can usually rest at home. Fluids and comfort matter more than chasing a normal reading.
Call right away for any fever in a baby under three months, a fever above 104, trouble breathing, a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade when pressed, or a child who is hard to wake.
If you are unsure, call. Our nurse line is answered every hour of the night, and a five minute conversation is often enough to decide whether to come in or wait until morning.
