Fever in Children

What can be done to prevent the symptom?

Immunizations are available for some of the illnesses that cause fevers in children. The MMR vaccine, for example, protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Good hand-washing can prevent the spread of other illnesses to children.

What are the long-term effects of the symptom?

Parents often worry that a high fever may lead to brain damage. Brain damage can occur with a fever of 106 degrees F to 107 degrees F. This level of fever is very unusual. It is most often associated with unusual conditions such as heat emergencies, severe meningitis, or preexisting brain problems. Brain damage from fevers brought on by common illnesses is almost unheard of.

What are the risks to others?

Fever itself is not contagious. However, many of the infections that cause fever in children are highly contagious.