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My daughter has a high fever. Do I need to take her to the hospital?

December 5, 2009

Parents are often concerned when their child has a fever.  However, a fever is one way in which your body fights an infection. A fever itself is not an illness but a symptom.  The height of the fever does not indicate how severe the infection is. Other symptoms such as a cough, rash, vomiting, or diarrhea also need to be considered. The infection may be bacterial or viral. Most common childhood illnesses are caused by viruses. There are many viruses circulating in the community at any one time. Your body will fight off an infection more effectively in the presence of a fever because your body produces more antibodies to fight off infection.

A reliable thermometer is an important item to have in your home when you need to check for a fever.  Rectal and underarm thermometers should be used in children less than 2 years of age.  Normal temperatures* in children are:

  • Rectal: 36.6 - 38.0 degrees Celsius (97.9 - to 101.4 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Mouth: 35.5 - 37.5 degrees Celsius (95.9 - 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Underarm: 34.7 - 37.3 degrees Celsius (94.5 - 99.1 degrees Fahrenheit)

Infants under 60 days: 36.3 - 37.3 degrees Celsius (97.3 - 99.1 degrees Fahrenheit)

  • Ear: 35.8 - 38.0 degrees Celsius (96.4 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit)
    *Canadian Pediatric Society

A baby less than three months old with a fever needs to be seen by a doctor.

You should speak to your health care provider or seek immediate medical attention if your child:

  • has trouble breathing
  • has a fever of 41C (105.8 F) or greater at any age
  • develops a bruise-like rash and a fever
  • is confused or difficult to arouse
  • has a stiff neck or a severe headache
  • is becoming dehydrated or refusing to drink fluids
  • more fussy or irritable
  • complains of abdominal pain that persists for at least 2 hours
  • if you are very worried about their condition

For more information about caring for your child’s fever or symptom management, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).