High temperature (fever) in children: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services now if your child:
Is struggling to breathe, grunting, or pulling in under the ribs
Has blue, grey, very pale, or blotchy skin, lips, or tongue
Is difficult to wake, confused, floppy, or not responding normally
Has a rash that does not fade when pressed with a clear glass
Has a stiff neck, severe headache, or discomfort with bright light
Has a first seizure, or a seizure lasting more than five minutes
And for anyone, someone who:
has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Get urgent same-day medical advice if:
Your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C or higher
Your baby is 3 to 6 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
The fever has lasted five days or longer
Your child is drinking poorly or has signs of dehydration
Your child is becoming more unwell or is not acting normally
Your child has a weakened immune system or a significant long-term condition
And for anyone, someone who:
has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if fevers keep returning, or if other symptoms continue after the fever has settled.
Seek earlier advice whenever you are worried, even if the temperature is below the thresholds above.
The article also says
If your child has a seizure, place them on their side on a safe surface.
Protect their head, move nearby objects, and note the time.
Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on High temperature (fever) in children. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.