Solitude

Because young children are not able to hold a thermometer in their mouths, their temperature may be checked rectally or axillary (under the arm). Axillary temperatures are usually 1 o  lower than rectal temperatures, and rectal temperatures are the most accurate. All temperature guidelines listed in this chart are rectal. Temperatures above 105 o  (oral) can be dangerous, and need immediate medical attention. SYMPTOMS DIAGNOSIS SELF-CARE Begin Here 1. Is your child two months of age or younger with a fever of 100.4° or higher? Yes This may be a sign of a serious INFECTION. Call your child's doctor. No 2. Is your child older than 2 months of age with a fever of 102° or higher that is unresponsive to fever-reducing medicine? Yes Go to Question 14.* No 3. Does your child have a low-grade fever (up to 101°) and a runny nose, and is he or she tired and cranky? Yes Your child's symptoms may be from a simple VIRAL INFECTION, such as a  COLD or FLU. Treat your ch...