If You Think Your Baby Has a Fever

Babies can sometimes feel warm to the touch even when they don't have a fever. The health care provider checked your baby's temperature, examined your baby, and asked questions. Your baby did not show any signs of being sick, so you can safely take care of your baby at home.

• If your baby feels warm or seems uncomfortable, take a rectal temperature using a digital thermometer. Glass mercury thermometers aren't safe, so if you have one, dispose of it safely and replace it with a digital thermometer.

• Make sure your baby's sleeping area is not too warm.

• Dress your infant in lightweight clothing. Too many layers could make your baby too warm.

• Follow up with your baby's health care provider as instructed.

Your baby:

• seems to be less hungry

• is cranky or not as active as usual

• has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher (if your baby is younger than 3 months old)

• has a rectal temperature of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher (if your baby is older than 3 months old)

• has a rectal temperature below 97°F (36.1°C)

Why would a baby's skin feel warm without a fever? A baby's skin can feel warm if the baby is in a warm room or dressed in heavy clothes. When a person touches a baby's skin, the skin can feel warm, especially if the person's hands are cool. Warm skin doesn't always mean the baby has a fever.

How can I tell if my baby has a fever? A rectal thermometer is the best way to take a baby's temperature. You take a rectal temperature by gently inserting the tip of a thermometer into the opening in your baby's bottom where the stool (poop) comes out. Use a digital thermometer labeled for use with babies and follow the instructions that came with it.