Fever is defined as a rectal temperature of greater than 100.4° F and does not need to be treated unless your infant is uncomfortable. Fever is a sign that your child is fighting off an infection. Fever helps kill viruses and bacteria; so fever is the way your child's body rids itself of unwanted germs.

A high fever does not necessarily indicate a more serious infection. Some children run high fevers with only minor infections. It is more important to watch your child's behavior to determine how ill he is.

There are several types of thermometers - rectal thermometers and oral thermometers. You should take rectal or axillary (armpit) temperatures in children under 4 or 5 years of age. Strips of paper which indicate the temperature when applied to the forehead are not very accurate and should not be used as a guide to your child's true temperature. Ear thermometers are widely available, but their accuracy is also questionable. Mercury thermometers are no longer recommended.

Rectal Temperature: Normal Range 98°F - 100.4°F

1. Lay your baby on his stomach and spread his legs apart so you can see his anus.
2. Lubricate the bulb of the thermometer with petroleum jelly or some other lubricant.
3. Hold the thermometer between your thumb and forefinger the way you would hold a pencil. Rest the heel of your hand on your child's buttocks and slowly and gently insert the thermometer into your child's anus about 3/4 inch.
4. Hold the thermometer in place for 1 - 2 minutes.

Axillary Temperature: Normal Range 97°F - 99.6°F

1. Make sure your infant is dry and has no clothing in the armpit.
2. Carefully place the dry rectal thermometer high up in your child's armpit.
3. Hold your child's arm close against his body.
4. The thermometer should be held in place 4-5 minutes.

What to Do for Fever

• Call the office immediately for a fever in a baby under 2 months. Under 6 months of age, we would like you to call us also.

Following these steps will help you in caring for your child when he has a fever:

• Measure temperature by following the instructions above.
• Dress your child lightly. Overdressing your child will increase his body temperature.
• Do not overheat the house, especially the bedroom.
• Provide plenty of liquids.
• Up your child's weight at his last doctor's visit.
• If the fever lasts more than 24 hours without an obvious source, such as a cold or vomiting, make an appointment to bring your child to our office.
• If your child's fever is less than 104°F, Tylenol or Advil/Motrin alone is enough. If your child's fever is greater than 104°F, you may sponge bathe your child with tepid water - never alcohol—until the fever comes down. To sponge bathe your child, place him in the bathtub or sink and pour tepid water over his shoulders and back for 20-30 minutes, until the temperature comes down.