How to Treat Your Child’s Fever Without Medication

Avoid overheating.

Keep the room comfortably cool and dress your child lightly.

Drink extra fluids to prevent dehydration.

Water, diluted fruit juice and store-bought electrolyte solutions are good choices.

Discourage overexertion.

It's ok for your child to get out of bed and play calmly.

Don't use aspirin to treat discomfort.

Aspirin has been linked with side effects in young children, including Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness that affects the liver and brain.

Give lukewarm, not cold, baths or washcloths to reduce temperature.

Cool water can cause shivering and raise your child's temperature.

When to Call the Doctor:

Babies under 3 months old:

A rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher.

Babies and children over 3 months old:

A fever reaches 102°F.