Fever in Children
Fever is a symptom, not an illness. Learn what counts as a fever, when to keep your child home from school, and how to support recovery.
Understanding Fever.
Understanding Normal Body Temperature
Normal body temperatures typically range from 97.6 to 99.6 degrees Fahrenheit when taken orally. However, temperatures can fluctuate during the day or with specific activities like exercise or playing.
What Counts as a Fever?
Most medical references agree that an oral temperature greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a low-grade fever. A fever is a symptom, and the underlying cause of the fever should be determined. Most often, fevers are caused by infections as your child's body fights off illness.
School Guidelines
for Fever.
When to Keep Your Child Home
Any child with a temperature greater than 100 degrees will be excluded from school. This helps protect other students and allows your child to rest while recovering.
Keep your child home if they have:
When Your Child Can Return
Your child may return to school when:
This means your child should be fever-free on their own, without the help of medication, before returning to school.
Managing Fever at Home.
While your child is recovering, follow these guidelines to help them feel comfortable and support their immunity.
When to Call the Doctor.
Contact your child's doctor if your child experiences any of the following symptoms.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have questions about your child's fever or when they are ready to return to school, contact your school nurse.