Fever in children


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Fever in children


Most fevers are caused by viral illnesses and range between and . Generally, medical treatment is not needed. Home treatment can be helpful if the child is uncomfortable.

Remember, fever is only a symptom. If other symptoms are present, evaluate them. Fevers of to that occur without other symptoms and that last 2 to 3 days are usually not a cause for concern.

A fever that occurs after an operation or other medical procedure may mean that your child has an infection and needs to be evaluated by a health professional.

A fever in a child who has a medical condition that impairs his or her immune system is more serious because the child could suddenly become very ill. A child who has a fever and an impaired immune system needs to be evaluated by a health professional.

If you are unable to measure your child's temperature, look for other symptoms of illness.

Credits


Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Editor Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Last Updated April 24, 2007

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Last updated: April 24, 2007
Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Editors: Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC, Tracy Landauer

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