Checklist: When to Call the Doctor If Baby Has a Fever

In most cases, a mild fever doesn't warrant a call to the pediatrician, but you should ring the doctor if your baby:

By the editors of Parents.com

___ Is less than 3 months old and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher

___ Is 3 to 6 months old and has a rectal temperature of 101 degrees or higher

___ Has a temperature (rectal, oral, axillary) of 103 degrees or higher -- no matter how old she is

___ Has had a fever of 100.4 or above that's stuck around for more than 24 hours

___ Seems to be really out of it

___ Has belly or neck pain, a headache, a severe sore throat, a rash, an earache, or has a lot of vomiting or diarrhea (especially if she's not drinking or urinating well)

___ Looks very ill, is super drowsy, or is very fussy

___ Has been in a really hot place -- like at the beach or outside for a long time on a hot summer day (this could be a sign of heat exhaustion)

___ Has had a seizure (body convulsions)

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