Symptom

FeverinChildren:AssessmentandRedFlags

Fever is the body's natural response to infection and is one of the most common symptoms in childhood. Assessment depends on the child's age, the degree of fever, and accompanying symptoms.

0-18 yrs5 min readUpdated: 2026-08-30

Possible Causes

Fever most often develops from viral infections; bacterial infections, post-vaccination reactions, and teething are among the other possible causes.

Related Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Chills

Related Conditions

  • Upper respiratory infection
  • Ear infection
  • Urinary tract infection

Red Flags

  • Fever above 38°C in an infant under 3 months
  • A rash accompanying the fever
  • Confusion or excessive drowsiness

See a healthcare provider right away for any fever in an infant under 3 months, a fever above 40°C at any age, or if any red flag appears.

Sources

American Academy of PediatricsHealthyChildren.orgCDCWHO GHO