Fever during school: What parents today must now also know

As children return to classrooms and social settings, it’s normal for parents to worry about fevers, especially in the post-pandemic era. Fever is not an illness itself, but a sign the body is fighting off infection, often viral.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

When is it a fever?

A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever. It may be accompanied by tiredness, poor appetite, or body aches.

When to keep them home:

If your child has a fever, they should stay home, rest, and hydrate. Sending them to school risks spreading infection and slows their recovery.

When to see a doctor:

• Fever lasting more than 3 days

• Difficulty breathing

• Rash, stiff neck, or extreme drowsiness

• If your child is under 3 months old with any fever

Avoid unnecessary antibiotics:

Most school-time fevers are mostly caused by viruses, not bacteria, so they won’t respond to antibiotics.

Supportive care matters most:

Fluids, rest, light meals, and fever medicine (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if needed) can help ease symptoms.

Back-to-school means more germs, but also more immunity building. A strong routine and timely response can make all the difference.