Whats different about a fever in an infant versus one in a toddler?
Fever in infants younger than two months may indicate a more serious infection, as these children are more susceptible to those infections (such as sepsis or meningitis). Q: What are the most common reasons for fevers in infants and toddlers? A: Most fevers are caused by very common infections, such as colds, flu, or ear infections. A majority of these are caused by viruses and need no further treatment. Fever is not a sign that you child automatically has a more severe infection or that he/she needs antibiotics. Q: How can a parent tell when an infant or toddler has a fever without using a thermometer? A: The only sure way to diagnose a fever is using a thermometer. However, most experienced parents have a good idea by the way the child is acting and how warm they feel. Q: Does the type of thermometer matter? Is it best to use a rectal thermometer? Is there an age limit? A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the discontinuation of use of mercury containing thermometers. The
