What Are the Dangers of Infant Fever?

Fevers develop when the body is battling an infection. Infant fever may subside with no harm done or may carry severe consequences if untreated, so it's important to learn how to handle your baby's fever.

Fever Dangers

• According to Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital, fever is not dangerous itself but the underlying infection may be. Infections can spread rapidly in babies, especially those under 3 months, so adequate care is essential.

Taking Temperature

• Take an infant's temperature rectally for the most accurate reading. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers a rectal temperature of over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit to be a fever.

When to Call the Doctor

• Fever is especially dangerous in infants under 3 months, so call the doctor right away if your young baby has a temperature of 100.4 F or higher. Doctors should be informed of a temperature of 101 F in babies 3 to 6 months old and 103 F in infants over 6 months, according to BabyCenter.

Considerations

• Seek help if your baby's behavior, lack of appetite or appearance concerns you, regardless of his temperature.

Warning

• Never give a baby medicine in an attempt to reduce her fever without a doctor's consent. Aspirin is associated with Reye's syndrome, a serious liver disease, and should not be given to anyone under 18, according to Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital.