You put your hand on your child’s forehead and it feels warm. Your stomach drops a little, even though you know, deep down, that fevers happen all the time in kids. That instinct to worry is completely normal!
The good news is that most fevers are simply a sign that your child’s immune system is doing its job.
Still, it helps to know which fevers are nothing to lose sleep over, and which ones mean it is time to get your child checked out.
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand when to worry about a fever in kids and when it may be time to seek care.
Common Reasons Kids Get Fevers
Fevers are usually a response to an infection, and in children, the list of common culprits includes:
- Viral illnesses, such as colds
- Ear infections
- Strep throat
- Flu or COVID
- Other infections, including urinary tract or respiratory infections
In most of these cases, the fever itself is not dangerous. It is simply the body’s way of fighting off whatever is causing the illness.
For a broader overview of fever symptoms, causes, and care tips, visit our complete guide to fevers in kids.
When Should You Pay a Visit to KidsStreet?
While many fevers can be managed at home with rest and fluids, there are times when a same day evaluation makes sense.
Consider bringing your child in if the fever comes with a sore throat, ear pain, a rash, or vomiting and diarrhea. A fever that has lasted several days without improving, or one that simply doesn’t feel right to you as a parent, is also a good reason to come in. You know your child better than anyone, and that instinct matters.
You can learn more about our urgent care services for children and what to expect when you bring your child in for a fever evaluation.
When to Take your Child to the ER
Most fevers can wait for a same day visit, but a few situations call for emergency care right away. Go to the ER or call 911 if your child has trouble breathing, a seizure, signs of severe dehydration, extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking, a stiff neck, or any symptom that feels seriously wrong.
A temperature of 105°F or higher should also be treated as an emergency.
Fevers in very young infants deserve extra caution, since babies can become seriously ill more quickly than older children. If your baby is 3 months old or younger and has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher, seek medical care right away.
If your gut tells you something is seriously wrong, it is always best to seek emergency care rather than wait.
What to Expect at KidsStreet Urgent Care for Kids
When you bring your child in for a fever, our team will start with a thorough evaluation, checking things like temperature, hydration, and overall behavior.
Depending on what we find, your provider may recommend testing for strep throat, flu, COVID, or other common culprits behind childhood fevers.
Our goal is to help you understand what may be causing the fever and what next steps can help your child feel better.
Visit KidsStreet for Fever Care
Fevers can be unsettling, but you do not have to manage them alone. KidsStreet is open late 7 days a week! Whenever a fever has you wondering whether it is time to come in, our team is ready to help.
Register online to save your spot in line! Online registration is not an appointment, but it can help reduce in-clinic wait times by adding you to the queue before you arrive. We’ll help you get clear answers about your child’s fever.
For more help deciding when pediatric urgent care is the right choice, read our complete guide: When to Take Your Child to Urgent Care: A Parent’s Guide.