Ask Dr. Taz MD: April 17th, 2014

Dear Dr. Taz,
I read on your website that you are also a trained pediatric ER specialist and a mom of young kids too! I have a baby and am wondering when does a fever constitute a trip to the emergency room? And will the guidelines change once he is a toddler, or over one?

Answer: 
Fever is concerning for all patients, but especially in your newborns and infants under 3 months of age. Any fever over 101.5 F needs to be seen by a physician. Fever in any age that lasts for more than 3 days, also needs to be seen by a physician. Don’t forget to stay calm and track eating patterns, urination and activity—all of which are also helpful when trying to determine if your child may need to see the doctor.