Normal body temperature actually varies slightly from one child to another, but an average “normal” body temperature, when taken by mouth or ear, is considered to be 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (F) or 37.0 degrees Centigrade (C). “Normal” rectal temperature readings are one degree higher while “normal” readings for temperatures taken under the arm are one degree lower than those taken in the mouth or ear.

When a child's body temperature is significantly elevated, the child is considered to have a fever. Fever is a way the body fights infection. Some fevers can be treated at home, while some need immediate attention by health care providers.

It is important to contact your health care provider when an infant less than 12 weeks old has a fever or when the temperature of a child under 15 months old is over 103 degrees F.

Sometimes children run slight fevers after receiving immunizations. Check with your health care provider to see when they would like you to report a fever.

Treatment:

• Children under 12 weeks old–call your health care provider
• Children with a temperature over 103 and who are over 12 weeks–call your health care provider
• If your child has a fever accompanied by any of these symptoms call your health care provider:
  - Stiff neck or neck pain
  - Earache symptoms
  - A rash
  - Labored or hard breathing
  - Vomiting or diarrhea
  - Crying with no tears, little or no urine for six hours or more, dry mouth,
    sunken eyes, fatigue, lack of energy

For minor fevers, dress your child lightly, give lots of cool clear liquids and give children’s acetaminophen based on health care provider's recommended dosage.