A fever is the body’s natural way of fighting infection. However, when your child’s temperature rises to 104°F (40°C), it’s understandable to feel worried. While not every high fever is dangerous, it does require careful attention and the right care.
What is the cause of fever?
A fever means your child’s body temperature is higher than normal—usually above 100.4°F (38°C).
Fever itself isn’t an illness. It’s a symptom that the body is fighting an infection. This could be a virus like the flu or bacteria like strep throat or Malaria, Typhoid.
A 104°F fever is considered high, but the level of temperature alone doesn’t always show how sick a child is. How your child looks, behaves, and feels is often more important.
Top 3 Safe Ways to Reduce Fever at home
1. Give Fever-Reducing Medicine
Two common medications can help lower fever and make your child more comfortable:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol):
- Dose: 10–15 mg per kg (5–7 mg per lb) of body weight every 4–6 hours
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin):
- Dose: 10 mg per kg (5 mg per lb) every 6–8 hours
- Only for children older than 6 months
Never give aspirin to a child or teenager. It can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye’s syndrome.
Always measure medicine carefully using the dosing syringe or cup that comes with it.
2. Keep Your Child Comfortable
- Dress them in light, breathable clothing
- Maintain a cool room temperature (around 70–74°F or 21–23°C)
- Offer plenty of fluids — water, diluted fruit juice, electrolyte solutions, or breast milk/formula for infants
- Encourage rest, but allow quiet play if they feel up to it
3. Try Lukewarm Sponging (If Needed)
If the fever remains above 103–104°F even after medicine, you can gently sponge your child with lukewarm water.
- Avoid cold baths or alcohol rubs, which can cause shivering and raise body temperature.
- Stop if your child becomes uncomfortable or starts to shiver.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Help
- Is under 3 months old and has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Has a fever lasting more than 3 days
- Appears very weak, unusually sleepy, or unresponsive
- Has difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Experiences a seizure or stiff neck
- Develops a rash, especially one that looks like bruising or tiny red spots that don’t fade when pressed
- Is vomiting constantly or refuses to drink fluids
- Shows signs of dehydration (no tears, dry mouth, no urine for 8+ hours)
Monitor and Follow Up
Check your child’s temperature every 2–4 hours and watch for any changes in alertness, hydration, or breathing.
If the fever doesn’t drop after 24 hours, or your child’s condition worsens, see a doctor right away.
Even if the fever lowers, follow up with your pediatrician. Do this if your child seems unusually tired, irritable, or refuses food or drink.
Key Takeaways
- A 104°F fever is high but not automatically dangerous.
- Focus on comfort, hydration, and monitoring rather than the number alone.
- Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for relief—never aspirin.
- Seek medical attention for infants under 3 months, persistent fever, or concerning symptoms.