Fever: When to Call the Doctor
When is a fever cause for concern?
If any of the following situations apply, call a doctor as soon as possible:
- A fever accompanied by a stiff neck, confusion or irritability
- Any time a child under six months has a fever
- Whenever a child between the ages of six months and a year has a fever that lasts beyond 24 hours
- A fever remaining above 103°F (39.5°C) longer than two hours after home treatment
- A fever lasting longer than two days
- High fever accompanied by rash
- Photophobia (irritated by light)
- Dehydration (less amount of urine, sunken eyes, no tears)
- Seizures
Any fever in an adult that goes above 105°F (or 40.5°C) and does not come down with treatment is a life-threatening medical emergency and 9-1-1 should be called.
