When to Seek Care for a Fever

A fever is your body’s way of signaling that something isn’t quite right. Defined as a temperature of 100.4°F or higher, a fever often indicates your immune system is activated and fighting an infection.

"Fever is a natural response to many illnesses, but it’s important to monitor its severity and duration,” says Jae Hyun Shim, M.D., family medicine provider at Hackensack Meridian Medical Group. “If a fever lasts for more than three days, spikes above 103°F, or is accompanied by symptoms like confusion, difficulty breathing or a rash, it’s time to talk to a doctor or to get an immediate evaluation"

While some fevers resolve quickly, others can stick around. Knowing when to seek medical care can help ensure you and your loved ones stay safe.

When should adults see a doctor for a fever?

It's important to monitor your temperature and symptoms to determine if you need to make an appointment with a doctor. You might also consider a telemedicine option like HMH NOW to speak with a doctor without leaving home.

Fever temperatures that require medical attention:

• 105°F or higher: Go to the emergency room immediately.
• 103°F or higher: Contact your health care provider.
• 101°F or higher (if immunocompromised or over 65): Contact your doctor, especially if you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 or Influenza A/B.

You should also see a doctor if: 

• Your fever doesn’t go down after taking over-the-counter medications like Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen.
• You’ve been exposed to high heat and developed a fever (this could signal heat stroke or heat exhaustion).
• You’ve been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 or Influenza A/B.
• You have symptoms including headache, night sweats, muscle stiffness, neck stiffness, confusion, shortness of breath, chest pain, belly pain, nausea or vomiting, difficulty urinating, chills or fever that comes and goes.
  
  

When should children see a doctor for a fever?

Children’s fever thresholds and symptoms vary by age, so monitoring their condition closely is essential.

Fever temperatures that require medical attention (by age):

• 0–3 months: Call your child’s pediatrician if their temperature is 100.4°F or higher, with or without other symptoms.
• 3–6 months: Call if their temperature is 100.4°F or higher and they are irritable or very sleepy, OR if their temperature reaches 102°F or higher.
• 6–24 months: Contact your pediatrician if their temperature is 102°F or higher for more than a day, especially if accompanied by a rash, cough or diarrhea.
• 2+ years: Seek care for temperatures of 100.4°F or higher combined with symptoms such as:
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Difficulty breathing
• Prolonged diarrhea or vomiting
  
  

When to seek immediate medical care for your child’s fever (any age)

Seek immediate care if your child:

• Experiences a seizure.
• Has a fever of 103°F or higher.
• Develops a fever after being in hot temperatures (possible heat stroke).
• Doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications.
• Has been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or Influenza A/B.
  
  

How to monitor a fever

If you or your child develops a fever, taking a few precautionary steps can help while deciding whether to seek care:

• Use a thermometer to monitor the fever regularly.
• Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration from sweating.
• Use cool compresses or light clothing to help bring down the temperature.
  
  

Is it time to see a doctor for your fever? 

Fevers are often harmless on their own, but if symptoms worsen or don’t improve, it’s best to consult a doctor. Don’t wait if you or your child show signs of severe fever-related symptoms.

• Make an Appointment: To schedule a visit with a doctor, call 800-822-8905 or use our physician directory to book online.
• To connect with a doctor now through a virtual visit, download the HMH 24/7 app. 

The information provided is for general use and should not replace your doctor’s advice. Always consult your physician for personalized care.