For babiesunder 3 to 4 months

1. Measuring body temperature

 The most accurate way to measure temperature is through the rectum. If you feel uncomfortable doing this, measure your armpit temperature. If it exceeds 99 F, check the rectum with a rectal thermometer for the most accurate reading.

2. Call your pediatrician

 If your child's fever exceeds 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, contact your pediatrician. Children this age should see a pediatrician when they are sick. Bathing or sponging your child with warm water will help reduce the fever. Do not use cold water, ice baths, or alcohol. Do not take any medication without first talking to your doctor.

 For vaccinated children over 3 months

 1.1. Measure the temperature

 Rectum. Children as young as 4 or 5 months old use a rectal thermometer to get accurate readings. When the rectal temperature exceeds 100.4F, the child will have a fever. Oral. Oral or pacifier thermometers can be used for children older than 4 or 5 months. If 100.4 F. goes beyond the ears, the child has a fever. If your child is 6 months or older, you can use an ear or temporal artery thermometer, but this may not be accurate. Still, it's a reasonable way to get a good quote in most cases. If it is important to get accurate measurements, measure the rectal temperature. Armpit. When measuring a child's armpit temperature, readings above 100.4F usually indicate a fever.

2. If the temperature is below 102 degrees Fahrenheit

 Fever does not need to be treated unless the child is sick or has a history of febrile seizures. Make sure your child gets plenty of fluids to rest.

3. When the temperature is above 102 degrees Fahrenheit and below 105 degrees Fahrenheit

 Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be given to infants or children by following the dosage instructions on the package. Talk to your pediatrician before giving your child a fever reducer for the first time. Bathing or sponging your child with warm water will help lower their body temperature. Do not use cold water, ice baths, or alcohol. Do not give aspirin to children under 18 because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, a dangerous brain disease. Call your pediatrician to find out if you should take your child to the doctor.

4. Monitoring

 Children should not return to school or daycare until the fever has disappeared for at least 24 hours. Contact your pediatrician if you have a high or anxious fever that lasts longer than 2 days.