When is a fever dangerous?
Fevers are a positive sign that the body is mobilizing its immune system to fight off an infection. Most fevers are beneficial and harmless, although they may cause discomfort and irritability in children. We recommend not treating fevers unless the child is extremely irritable or uncomfortable. A fever is dangerous if it persists in the high range of 104- 105 and the child is extremely irritable or lethargic. Persistent fevers in this higher range are more likely to indicate a bacterial infection and therefore require a prompt evaluation.
