The under-3-months rule is absolute — fever of 100.4°F+ in a baby this young warrants immediate evaluation, even if nothing else seems wrong. For older children, the fever number matters less than behavior. A stiff neck, purple spots or petechiae, extreme difficulty waking, severe headache, or breathing trouble are ER signs regardless of temperature.
When should a child's fever go to the ER?
Quick answer:
Any fever in a baby under 3 months needs immediate evaluation. Older children: seek the ER for fever with stiff neck, rash, lethargy, or difficulty breathing.
We see children — walk in now
Walk in 6 days a week at 1102 West Kemper Rd., Forest Park — or book online and skip the wait. Most visits under an hour.
