Q: My child feels cold and their temperature is 37.3°C. Is a fever starting?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD

Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

It seems like my child might be developing a fever. Before their nap, they mentioned feeling cold, and their temperature was 37.0°C. After waking up and having dinner, they kept complaining about feeling cold. I checked their temperature again, and it has gone up to 37.3°C. It seems like a fever is starting—should I just continue to monitor them for now?

Answer:

It is completely understandable to be concerned when your child feels cold and their temperature appears to be rising. While 37.3°C is still considered within the normal temperature range, experiencing chills can sometimes be an early sign that a higher fever is developing.

Here is what you can do right now to monitor and comfort your child:

• Recheck their temperature in about 30 minutes to an hour.

• Dress them in comfortably warm clothing, but avoid bundling them in too many heavy blankets, which can trap excess heat.

• Encourage them to drink plenty of water or warm fluids to stay well-hydrated.

• Closely observe their overall behavior (e.g., check if they are playing and eating as they normally would).

When to consider fever-reducing medication:

• You can administer fever reducers if their temperature reaches 38.0°C or higher AND your child is experiencing discomfort.

• Remember that your child's overall condition and comfort level are much more important than the exact number on the thermometer.

When to seek medical attention:

• The temperature reaches 39.0°C or higher and persists.

• Your child becomes extremely lethargic, unresponsive, or refuses to eat or drink.

• They experience rapid or difficult breathing.

• The fever is accompanied by a rash or other concerning symptoms.

Please note: If your child is under 3 months of age, any temperature of 38.0°C or higher requires an immediate visit to the Emergency Room. For older children, please consult your pediatrician or see a doctor if you are ever unsure about their condition or if the symptoms persist.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us