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When to go straight to an emergency unit
⚠️ Don't book a video consult. Go to your nearest emergency unit, or call 10111 or 112, if your child:
- Is under 3 months old with a temperature of 38°C or higher
- Has a rash that doesn't fade when you press a glass against it
- Is struggling to breathe, breathing very fast, grunting, or the skin between the ribs pulls in
- Is floppy, unusually drowsy, hard to wake or not responding normally
- Has a seizure (fit), a stiff neck, or a bulging soft spot on the head
- Has blue, grey or very pale lips or skin
- Shows signs of dehydration: no wet nappy or urine for 6 hours or more, no tears, sunken eyes or a dry mouth
Fever in children
Understanding your child's fever
A fever is a temperature of 38°C or higher. It is the body's natural way of fighting infection, and in children it is usually caused by a virus such as a cold, flu or a tummy bug. The height of the fever on its own doesn't tell you how sick a child is. How they are behaving, drinking and breathing matters more.
Book a VDOC doctor if your child:
- Has a fever but is still drinking, passing urine and responding normally
- Has had a fever for more than 48 hours, or you're worried and want advice
- Has a cough, runny nose, sore throat or ear ache
- Has diarrhoea or vomiting but is keeping some fluids down (see diarrhoea & vomiting)
- Has a rash that fades when pressed, an eye infection, or itchy skin
- Needs a sick note for school or crèche
A fever lasting 5 days or more should always be checked in person.
How it works
How a consult for your child works
1
Parent books
A parent or legal guardian books online or on WhatsApp and adds the child as a patient on their profile.
2
Child joins with you
You stay with your child for the whole call. The doctor talks to you both and looks at symptoms on camera.
3
Plan & follow-up
You get treatment advice, a prescription if needed, and clear guidance on when to seek in-person care.
At home
Caring for a child with a fever
- Fluids first: offer small, frequent drinks. Keep breastfeeding or formula feeding babies.
- Comfort: dress your child in light clothing. Don't bundle them up, and don't sponge them with cold water.
- Fever medicine: paracetamol or ibuprofen can help a distressed child feel better. Always dose by weight and follow the package or the doctor's advice. Never give aspirin to children.
- Check at night: look in on your child regularly, including overnight.
- Keep them home from school or crèche while they have a fever.
💡 Before the call: have your child's temperature readings, approximate weight and a list of any medicine you've given (with times) ready. Sit somewhere well-lit.