“Should I take my child to the doctor for a fever?”

Fever is defined as a temperature > 100.4oF measured rectally, axillary, or oral. Fever can be caused by a number of different things, most of which are not dangerous. The age of your child, his/her possible underlying health issues, symptoms, and other pertinent history, such as travel or time of year, are all helpful in identifying the cause of the fever. Fevers caused by viruses must "run their course," as antibiotics will not treat viral infections. Infants, children with chronic conditions, or those who appear "sick" should be evaluated promptly by a provider trained in the care of children. Older, otherwise healthy children with minimal symptoms may be monitored at home under certain circumstances. It's never a bad idea to have fevers evaluated by your pediatrician, regardless.

Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP

Hello

I would take him if the fever lasts more than 5 days. Hope he feels better.

Right now is not flu season, however, if you’re concerned about corona virus, you should take him to test center to be tested. Before that, you could keep him home for two days to see if the fever will go away by itself. Just give him plenty water to drink and fever reducer to keep him comfortable. If the fever does not go away on the third day, you should consider taking him to see a doctor.