It is not unusual for babies and small children to get a mild fever. It is often a sign that your baby is fighting an infection. As a parent it is natural to be concerned. For that reason, it’s important that you know the difference between what is a ‘normal’ temperature and a high temperature and when your baby may need medical attention.
A baby's normal body temperature is around 37°C. A temperature above 38°C is considered a mild fever, and a temperature above 39°C is considered a high fever.
Fever can make your baby look unwell, feel hot, uncomfortable and miserable. If your baby is showing signs of a fever, you can take their temperature with a thermometer.
There are several methods of taking a baby’s temperature. The type of thermometer and method used depends on the age of your baby.
Digital thermometers - These can be used in children of any age. They are cheap, easy to use and accurate.
If your baby or child is under 5 years, you can use a digital thermometer under the arm, placing it against their armpit and bringing their arm down over the top of it. Try to keep it in place for at least 2 minutes.
If your child is over 5 years of age, you can use a digital thermometer in the mouth, making sure to place it under the side of the tongue and keeping it in place for at least 2 minutes.
Ear thermometers - These can be used in older children but are not recommended for young babies. They are fast and accurate, but tend to be more expensive than digital thermometers. It is important to be gentle when placing the measuring end of the thermometer into your child’s ear – you don’t have to push it in far.
Infrared forehead and plastic strip thermometers are also available, but they may not be accurate and are best avoided. Mercury-in-glass thermometers are also not recommended as they can be dangerous if broken.
When your baby has a fever it’s a good idea to regularly check their temperature and level of discomfort. If your child is content eating, drinking and playing, then it’s just a matter of letting the fever run its course as their body is fighting the infection.
If they are uncomfortable, let them rest as much as possible and encourage them to drink lots of fluids (water or breastmilk) to prevent dehydration. Keeping them in lightweight clothing and bedding is also recommended. If your child is miserable or distressed, you can also give them either paracetamol or ibuprofen. Nurofen for Children contains ibuprofen and is suitable for children over 3 months, and helps to reduce fever for up to 8 hours*. While it’s horrible to see your baby unhappy or uncomfortable, remember that most fevers only last a few days.
Fever is a normal way for your baby to fight an infection but if your baby is under 3 months old, or if they are 3-6 months with a high fever (over 39oC), it’s important to be cautious and always see your doctor. This is because babies are not as good at fighting off infection as older children.
Regardless of the age of your child, seek medical help urgently if they have a very high fever (over 40°C), if they seem to be getting sicker, or if they have a fever along with any of the following symptoms:
If your child has other symptoms as well as fever, such as pain, sore throat or diarrhoea or if you are worried about your child and/or their fever for any reason, be sure to see your doctor.
*Autret-Leca E, et al. 2007.
First published: 24th May 2021
Last updated: 18th October 2023
This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.
Always read the label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. Do not give to babies under 3 months of age. Seek medical advice for children under 12 months of age. Reckitt Benckiser, Auckland. TAPS-NA12948. RB-M-36715.
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