Under what circumstances should a child go to the emergency department for a fever?

A fever in infants less than 2 months old is a cause for immediate concern, and such children should be taken to the emergency department. This age group is particularly vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing. An elevated body temperature can indicate a serious infection or condition that requires prompt medical evaluation, such as meningitis, sepsis, or urinary tract infections.

The standard threshold for concern is that any fever in this young age group warrants a thorough assessment, often including laboratory tests and hospitalization if necessary. In contrast, while fevers in older children may require attention, they do not carry the same level of urgency as those in infants. For instance, fever above 101°F in children over 3 years or fever lasting more than 3 days in teenagers might require medical attention, but they typically do not necessitate an immediate emergency visit unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Similarly, fever with coughing can suggest an upper respiratory infection, which can often be managed in outpatient settings unless there are additional red flags.