What a fever means
A fever is a raised body temperature and is commonly part of the body’s response to infection. The temperature alone does not always indicate how unwell a child is.
Pay attention to breathing, alertness, hydration, skin colour, behaviour, and whether the child responds normally to you.
Supporting your child at home
Encourage regular fluids and allow the child to rest. Dress them comfortably and check them periodically, including during the night when appropriate.
If using medicine for discomfort, follow age and weight guidance supplied with the medicine or by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not combine or alternate medicines unless advised to do so.
- Offer small amounts of fluid frequently
- Continue breastfeeding where applicable
- Monitor wet nappies or bathroom visits
- Note the temperature and how it was measured
- Observe changes in breathing, alertness, and behaviour
When to contact a practitioner
Contact a healthcare professional if you are worried, the child is becoming less well, the fever persists, or there are symptoms such as ongoing pain, repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration, or unusual behaviour.
You know your child best. If their condition feels significantly different from an ordinary minor illness, seek clinical guidance.
Consultant Paediatrician. This article was last reviewed on August 28, 2026.