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Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American
Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical
professor at the George Washington University School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.
She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national
television programs, discussing issues related to children's health.
Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.
Q: What temperature is considered a fever in a baby under six months? How should I treat it and when do I call the doctor?
A: A core body temperature between 97.6 degrees and 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit, with 98.6 degrees as the median, is considered normal. Infants experience this type of variation during the course of their usual days and nights of eating, cooing, kicking, crying, and sleeping. However, if your baby feels warm to the touch, or demonstrates any sudden change in her activity pattern -- she's sleeping more than usual, seems more irritable, sucking less vigorously, drinking/eating less -- it's wise to take her temperature. One easy and quick device for temperature-taking is an ear probe. These instruments are equivalent to rectal thermometers in accurately measuring core body temperature.
If your infant has a temperature above 99.6 degrees, let your pediatrician know. While fever frightens many parents, try to remember that it's not a disease, but the body's defense to fight infection. Additionally, a raised temperature doesn't always signal infection. Regular activities, teething, changes in environmental temperature, even being overdressed, can cause an infant's body to respond with an elevated body temperature.
To help you remain C-A-L-M when your baby has a fever, just remember:
- C - Check temperature with a reliable instrument.
- A - Assess for other symptoms (Irritable? Sleeping? Eating?).
- L - Lower the body temperature to increase comfort: increase breast or formula feedings; give a sponge bath; talk with your pediatrician about administering acetaminophen.
- M - Monitor your child's behavior and temperature, and immediately report any concerns to your pediatrician.
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