Fevers are a frequent reason for pediatric visits, especially in infants and young children. At Children’s Physicians, serving Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, and Palm City, FL, our experienced pediatricians help parents understand when a fever is part of a mild illness and when it may signal something more serious.

What Causes Fever in Children?

A fever is the body's natural reaction to an infection. A virus usually causes it and goes away by itself. Sometimes, though, it can be caused by a bacterial infection that needs to be treated by a physician.

Kids also typically get fevers with ear infections, the flu, and colds. The cold will likely include a low-grade fever, cough, and congestion. The flu will most typically include a high fever and abrupt onset of fatigue. Ear infections, typically after a cold, cause pain and irritability in the infected area.

Strep throat, which requires antibiotics, and roseola, which begins with a sudden high fever and then rash, are a few other illnesses that may cause fever. Urinary tract infections are a less obvious cause of fever in toddlers and might not always have urinary symptoms. Hand, foot, and mouth disease, a viral illness distinguished by the combination of fever, rash, and mouth ulcers, is readily spread in group settings.

When to Call a Children’s Doctor

Although fevers can usually be managed at home, there are some situations in which early attention is necessary. You should call your pediatrician if the infant under three months old has a fever greater than 100.4°F, or if any child develops a fever that persists longer than two to three days. Additional warning signs are difficulty breathing, rash, persistent vomiting, intense irritability, or unusual sleepiness.

Comprehensive Pediatric Care Across the Region

At Children’s Physicians, we evaluate fevers carefully, asking about associated symptoms and your child’s behavior. Our offices in Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, and Palm City, FL, are equipped to provide same-day sick visits when needed. Whether your child needs supportive care, testing, or treatment for an infection, we ensure their comfort and recovery come first.

To schedule an appointment with a trusted children’s doctor, call the office nearest you:

• Palm Beach Gardens: (561) 626-4000
• Jupiter: (561) 743-9000
• Palm City: (772) 219-4444