Common Causes of Fever in Children

Fever is one of the most frequent reasons parents bring their children to the pediatrician. While it can be worrying to see a child’s temperature rise, fever is often a natural response of the body fighting infection. At Dr. Q Pediatrics in Orlando, Florida, also serving the areas of Oviedo and Alafaya, Dr. Marie R. Quiñonez and her team help families understand the common causes of fever in children and guide them on when they need medical care.

Understanding Fever

A fever is generally defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). In children, fever is usually a symptom rather than a disease itself. It signals that the immune system is responding to an infection or other condition. While most fevers are mild, it’s important to monitor your child and seek care when certain warning signs appear.

Common Causes of Fever in Children

1. Viral Infections
   Viral illnesses are the most frequent cause of fever in children. Common examples include colds, flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and gastroenteritis. These fevers often resolve on their own within a few days, though supportive care, including hydration, rest, and comfort measures, is important.
2. Bacterial Infections
   Less commonly, fevers are caused by bacterial infections such as strep throat, ear infections, urinary tract infections, or pneumonia. These infections may require antibiotics and prompt evaluation by a pediatrician.
3. Vaccinations
   After routine immunizations, some children develop a mild fever as their immune system responds to the vaccine. These fevers are usually short-lived and worth the protection vaccinations provide, but monitoring the child is recommended.
4. Other Causes
   Fevers can also result from inflammatory conditions, heat-related illness, or, more rarely, immune system disorders. Persistent or unusually high fevers should always be evaluated by a pediatric provider.

When to Contact Your Pediatrician

While most fevers are manageable at home, parents should contact Orlando’s Dr. Q Pediatrics if a child:

• Is under three months old with a temperature above 100.4°F
• Has a fever that lasts more than a few days
• Shows signs of dehydration, lethargy, or difficulty breathing
• Experiences seizures or persistent vomiting

Providing Care at Home

Parents can help children feel more comfortable by ensuring they drink plenty of water, providing light clothing, and using fever-reducing medications as recommended by a pediatrician. Keeping their environment calm can also help children recover more comfortably.

Schedule a Pediatric Visit

If your child has a fever and you’re unsure of the cause, Dr. Marie R. Quiñonez and her team at Dr. Q Pediatrics are here to help. With comprehensive care and guidance for families, the practice supports children’s health and recovery throughout the areas of Orlando, Oviedo, and Alafaya. Contact the office at (407) 275-5700 to schedule an appointment and get advice for managing your child’s fever.