Fever in Children and Infants: What to Know and How to Help

Fever is a common symptom in children and infants when they may have an infection. Understanding what temperature is considered a fever, how to reduce it safely, and when to seek care can help you feel more confident when your child isn’t feeling well.

A young child lying in bed with a parent’s hand gently resting on their forehead to check for a fever

What is a fever?

A fever is usually defined as a body temperature over 100.4°F and is often a natural immune response.¹

A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, defined by most healthcare providers as exceeding 100.4°F.

A fever is the body’s natural response to an illness or infection. When your child is sick, their body temperature rises in an attempt to fight the infection.

To learn how to take your child’s temperature based on their age, see How to Measure a Fever.

Fever symptoms in babies and children

Common fever symptoms include feeling hot, flushed skin, irritability, and low energy.

Common fever symptoms in children and infants may include:

Feeling cold or shivery but hot and dry when you touch them

Flushed cheeks, hot and sweaty skin

Headaches

Irritable, tiredness, watery eyes, or trouble settling

Swollen glands

For symptoms, in addition to a fever, that could be signs of a serious illness, read Fever Warning Signs.

Should you always treat a fever?

Focus on comfort. Consider a fever reducer for kids if your child feels unwell. See below for when you may consider calling a doctor.

It’s understandable to be concerned when your child has a fever. Usually, a fever is just a symptom of an infection or other condition and will go away on its own.

If your child doesn’t feel well, it can be helpful to look for ways to make them feel more comfortable. Over-the-counter fever reducers such as acetaminophen (found in Children’s TYLENOL®) or ibuprofen (found in Children’s MOTRIN®) may help reduce your child’s fever.

Children’s TYLENOL® starts to reduce fever in as little as 15 minutes. Children’s MOTRIN® can last up to 8 hours. Ask your doctor for their recommendation and use as directed.

Board-certified family physician Dr. Jen Caudle shares that “Treating a fever may help kids rest, stay hydrated, and recover faster. Leaving it unchecked can make them more uncomfortable and, in some cases, put extra strain on their little bodies.”

For information specific to fever in infants, read How to Treat & Reduce Your Baby’s Fever.

#1 Pediatrician Recommended Brand for Pain Relief and Fever Reduction*

“In my practice, I often talk with parents about fever in kids. I remind them that acetaminophen, the active ingredient in TYLENOL^®, when dosed properly, is one of the safest and most effective options we have for treating children’s fevers.”

– Dr. Jen Caudle, Board-Certified Family Physician

_{*Based on a Survey of Pediatricians (IQVIA 2025)}

Ways to keep your kid comfortable^2,3,4

Rest, hydration, light clothing, and a calm environment can help your child feel better. Consider a fever reducer for kids if needed. Talk to your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns.

A fever is the body’s natural response to infection, but it can make kids uncomfortable and disrupt sleep. You can help them rest by focusing on small, comfort-boosting actions:

Soothe with warm sponging.

Gently sponge your child’s body with slightly warm water if it helps them feel more comfortable. Stop if they start to shiver.

Keep them cool and comfy.

Dress your child in light layers and keep the room at a lower temperature.

Offer plenty of fluids.

Make sure your child drinks lots of fluids to help them stay hydrated.

Consider a trusted fever reducer.

You can help bring your child comfort with an over-the-counter fever reducer with acetaminophen, such as Children’s TYLENOL®, when used as directed.

Create a calming bedtime routine.

Dim lighting, a soft lullaby or bedtime story, and gentle rocking can soothe and calm a child.

Build a peaceful place for rest.

Support quiet time with soothing activities like quiet playtime, reading a book together, watching age-appropriate television, listening to calming music, and taking naptime when needed.

For more tips on how to help kids with a fever get to sleep, see How to Help Kids with a Fever Get to Sleep.

How to choose a fever reducer

Choosing the right fever reducer can help your child feel more comfortable so they can rest. All Children’s TYLENOL® products use acetaminophen and are available in infant and children’s formulas, chewables, and dissolve packs. Pick the right product for their age and comfort level.

Under 2 years old:

Talk to your doctor about Infants’ TYLENOL® if your child is under 2.

Ages 2 – 11 years old:

Children’s TYLENOL® Oral Suspension in kid-friendly flavors

Older kids*:

Some kids might prefer Children’s TYLENOL® Chewables or Dissolve Packs.

Dye-free formulas are available for children who are sensitive to dyes or for parents who prefer a dye-free option.

Always read and follow the label.

Use the included dosing cup or syringe for oral suspensions and follow weight or age-based guidance for all Infants’ or Children’s TYLENOL® products to make sure your child gets the appropriate amount.

*Always read and follow the label based on your child's age and weight and administer accordingly.

When to call a doctor

Call your child’s doctor right away for infants under 3 months with a fever of 100.4°F or higher, or for any child with severe symptoms or a temperature repeatedly over 104°F.²

If your little one isn’t feeling well and you’re unsure about the next step, it can be comforting to reach out to someone for guidance. Sometimes hearing from another perspective can help reinforce your instincts as a parent.

For detailed guidance and additional information, visit When to Call the Doctor.