The development of a fever is often one of the first health concerns many parents will come across with their new baby. If your baby's body temperature increases, it is generally a sign that their body is working hard to fight an infection. Babies and toddlers (up to 5 years of age) can be quite prone to developing frequent fevers, as a normal response to various illnesses. They can also have 'running fevers' (meaning they can last for up to 2 to 3 days).
If your baby has a fever because they are ill, they will usually have other physical signs. In the majority of cases, the fever will be caused by some form of temporary viral illness. In most cases, these illnesses are not serious, and usually do not require any treatment (unless severe). A fever may 'hand in hand' with your baby having a cold, a gastric or bowel infection (causing vomiting and/or diarrhoea) or a childhood illness (such as chicken pox or measles). However, if your baby has a bacterial infection, such as an ear infection, pneumonia or an infection of their urine, they will generally require medical attention and perhaps a prescription for antibiotics. If you are concerned about your baby, and the possible reason for their temperature, you should take them to your doctor for a check up.
Your baby may also develop a fever as a side effect to any routine immunisations. This may require them to have a medication (such as paracetamol) to help lower their temperature until this reaction passes. You can read more in
childhood vaccinations.
When your baby has a temperature, they will normally feel warm, or 'hot' to the touch, and will generally look unwell. Parents quickly acquire the skills to be able to 'feel' by touch, if their baby has a temperature. The best way to tell if your baby has a temperature is to place the back of your hand on the bare skin of their tummy.