In the early 20th century, scarlet fever was one of the leading causes of infant death, sometimes wiping out an entire family’s children. Over 2,800 deaths were recorded at the height of the 1914 ...

Parents or caregivers should consult a doctor if their child of any age has repeated temperature readings above 104°F (40°C). However, most childhood fevers do not require treatment. Fevers are common ...

A cold here, the flu there — for parents, some years can bring a slew of back-to-back illnesses. With coughs that can be considered “normal” that last for up to six weeks, as well as multiple ear ...

When your child has a fever, it can be difficult to determine whether it is serious enough to see a pediatrician. Cindy Gellner, MD, goes over some myths and facts about fevers in children and infants ...

A fever in children is not dangerous for sleep unless accompanied by serious symptoms. Keep drinking fluids to help your child stay hydrated while they have a fever. Fever-reducing medications can ...

A person can take a child’s temperature in several ways. The most effective method depends on the age of the child. An accurate temperature reading can help parents and caregivers assess their child’s ...

A fever — when the body’s temperature is above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit — is typically a sign that your body is fighting off an infection. Dr. Tina Ardon, a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician, ...

Ask a Doctor is a series of physician-authored columns offering insights and advice on common health topics. It is not a substitute for seeking medical care. Fever is one of the most common reasons I ...