Fever in young children can be a very scary experience for new parents. However, fever is actually a healthy response. It's the body's way of fighting infection whether bacterial or viral.

Learn the most effective methods of taking a child's temperature.

Average body temperature for adults and children is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees centigrade.

Infants UNDER 2 MONTHS of age with a fever (temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 37.8 degrees Centigrade or higher) should be seen by a pediatrician immediately.

Infants 2-6 MONTHS of age with a fever (temperature of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or 38.3 degrees Centigrade or higher) should be seen by a pediatrician immediately.

Children OVER 6 MONTHS of age with a fever (temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or 39.4 degrees Centigrade or higher) should be seen by a pediatrician.

Very high fevers in children between 6 months and 5 years may trigger febrile seizures or convulsions. These convulsions can occur when a child's fever spikes very high (104 degrees Fahrenheit or 40 degrees Centigrade) in a short period of time (several minutes). During an episode, the child may stiffen, shake, and eyes roll back. The seizure may last between 3-4 minutes (An eternity to a frightened parent). Febrile seizures are usually harmless, but the pediatrician should see the child as soon as possible.

Should a child become delirious (say things that make no sense, see things that aren't there) contact the pediatrician immediately.

TREATMENT

Most fevers can be controlled with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Where a bacterial infection is involved, such as with an ear infection or upper respiratory infection, the pediatrician usually prescribes antibiotics. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used in conjunction with the antibiotics to regulate body temperature.

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can even be layered (for example, if the fever is breaking through the acetaminophen, ibuprofen can be given as well) to more effectively reduce the child's temperature. Of course, as with any medications, get the approval of your child's pediatrician before layering.

Always check with the doctor about dosages. Many over the counter medicines suggest dosages by the child's age. The correct dosing is by the child's weight. Even acetaminophen can be toxic if administered in too large doses or at too short intervals.

Never give ASPRIN to children. Aspirin can cause Reye Syndrome, a rare, but serious condition that can cause death. SEE Aspirin and Children.

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Fevers in Children