Did You Know...

That the majority of fevers are not dangerous.

Misconceptions about the dangers of fever are commonplace. Unwarranted fears about harmful side effects from fever cause loss of sleep and unnecessary stress for many parents. Let the following facts help you put fever into perspective:

Myth: All fevers are bad for children

Fact: Fevers turn on the body's immune system. Fevers are on the the body's protective mechanisms. Most fevers between 100 F and 104 F (38 C to 40 C) are good for sick children and help the body fight infection. The exception is babies less than 3 months of age. They should be seen by a healthcare provider right away.

Myth: All fevers are to be treated with fever medicine

Fact: Fevers need to be treated only if they cause discomfort. Usually that means fevers over 102 F or 103 F (39 C or 39.4 C).

Myth: Fevers cause brain damage or fevers over 104 F (40 C) are dangerous

Fact: Fevers with infections don't cause brain damage. Only body temperatures over 108 F (42 C) can cause brain damage. The body temperature goes this high only with extreme environmental temperatures (for example, if a child is confined in a closed car in hot weather).

Myth: Without treatment, fevers will keep going higher

Fact: Wrong. Because the brain has a thermostat, fevers from infection usually top out at 103 F to 104 F (39.4 C to 40 C).

For more myths and facts visit: www.cpnonline.org/CRS/CRS/pa_feverpho_hhg.htm