Al Zahra
9 Oct 2026 · General Health
Flu Season in the UAE: Cold or Flu, Home Care, and When to See a Doctor
3 min readRead more
Fever in Children: When to Treat at Home and When to See a Doctor
Most fevers in children are caused by mild infections and settle in a few days. Here's how to care for your child at home and the warning signs that need a doctor.
Quick answer
A fever is a temperature of 38°C or higher. Most childhood fevers come from viral infections and settle within 3 days. See a doctor the same day if your baby is under 3 months with any fever, 3–6 months with 39°C or more, or if the fever lasts over 5 days. Call 998 for breathing difficulty, a rash that doesn't fade when pressed, a seizure or extreme drowsiness.
A hot, unhappy child is worrying for any parent. Fever itself is not an illness. It's the body's natural response to fighting infection. Most fevers in children are caused by common viral infections and pass on their own.
The key is knowing how to keep your child comfortable and which signs mean they need to be seen.
What counts as a fever?
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is a fever. A digital thermometer under the arm is a good method for young children. For older children, an in-ear or oral digital thermometer works well.
How to care for a child with fever at home
- Offer plenty of fluids: water, milk, or breast milk for babies. Look for wet nappies or regular urination.
- Dress them lightly and keep the room comfortably cool. Don't bundle them up or strip them completely.
- Let them rest, but don't wake a sleeping child just to give medicine.
- Use fever medicine for comfort: paracetamol or ibuprofen can help if your child is distressed. Give the dose for their weight or age on the pack, and don't give both at the same time unless a doctor advises it.
- Never give aspirin to children under 16.
- Avoid cold baths or sponging with cold water. It can make them shiver and feel worse.
When to see a doctor (same day)
Contact a doctor if your child:
| Age / situation | See a doctor if… |
|---|---|
| Under 3 months | Temperature of 38°C or higher |
| 3 to 6 months | Temperature of 39°C or higher |
| Any age | Fever lasting more than 5 days |
| Any age | Not drinking, fewer wet nappies, or very sleepy |
| Any age | Ear pain, sore throat with difficulty swallowing, pain passing urine |
| Any age | You are worried. Trust your instincts. |
Call 998 or go to the emergency department if your child:
- Has difficulty breathing, is grunting or the skin between the ribs pulls in
- Has a rash that doesn't fade when you press a glass against it
- Has a seizure (fit)
- Is floppy, very hard to wake, or confused
- Has a stiff neck or is bothered by light
- Has blue, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue
Common causes of fever in children
- Colds and flu
- Ear infections
- Throat infections
- Stomach bugs
- Urinary tract infections
- Reactions to vaccinations (usually mild and short-lived)
Frequently asked questions
Is a high fever dangerous for my child?
The height of the fever doesn't always reflect how serious the illness is. How your child looks and behaves is more important. A child who is playing and drinking with a 39°C fever is often less worrying than a floppy child with 38°C.
Can teething cause a fever?
Teething can cause a slight rise in temperature, but not a true fever of 38°C or more. If your teething baby has a fever, look for another cause.
Do children need antibiotics for a fever?
Only if a doctor finds a bacterial infection. Most childhood fevers are viral, and antibiotics don't help viral infections.
Can I see a GP for my child in Ajman this evening?
Yes. Our general practitioners see children during morning and evening sessions until 9:30 PM, Monday to Saturday. Walk in or book online.
