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A high temperature (fever) is very common in young children. The temperature usually returns to normal within 1 to 4 days.
A normal temperature in babies and children can vary slightly from child to child.
A high temperature is 38C or more.
If your child has a high temperature, they might:
Use a digital thermometer, which you can buy from pharmacies and supermarkets, to take your child's temperature.
If your child has just had a bath or been wrapped in a blanket, their temperature may be higher for a short time. Wait a few minutes then try again.
If your child or baby has a high temperature, you can usually look after them at home. The temperature should go down over 1 to 4 days.
give them plenty of fluids – if your baby is breastfed, continue to breastfeed as normal
look out for signs of dehydration
give them food if they want it
check on your child regularly, including during the night
keep them at home
give them paracetamol or ibuprofen if they're distressed or uncomfortable – check the packaging or leaflet to make sure the medicine is suitable for your child, or speak to a pharmacist or GP if you're not sure
get medical advice if you're worried about your child
do not undress your child or sponge them down to cool them – a high temperature is a natural and healthy response to infection
do not cover them up in too many clothes or bedclothes
do not give aspirin to children under 16 years of age
do not combine ibuprofen and paracetamol, unless a GP tells you to
do not give paracetamol to a child under 2 months
do not give ibuprofen to a child who is under 3 months, weighs under 5kg, has chickenpox, or is dehydrated
do not give ibuprofen to children with asthma unless it's been recommended by a doctor
A high temperature is the body's natural response to fighting infections like coughs and colds.
Many things can cause a high temperature in children, from common childhood illnesses like chickenpox and tonsillitis, to vaccinations.
