- Has a stiff neck.
- Has a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.
- Is unusually lethargic or difficult to wake.
- Has difficulty breathing.
Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on NHS and NICE guidelines. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have concerns about your child’s health. In a life-threatening emergency, call 999 immediately.
Finding that your child is hot to the touch can be alarming. However, a fever (a temperature of 38°C or higher) is very common in young children and usually suggests the body is fighting off a minor infection like a cold or sore throat.
To help parents decide on the best course of action, the NHS and NICE use a “Traffic Light System” to assess the risk of fever in children under five.
1. The NICE Traffic Light System: Assessing the Risk
Your child is likely in the “Green” zone if they:
- Have a normal skin, lips, and tongue colour.
- Respond to you normally and smile.
- Stay hydrated and are alert when awake.
- Have a strong cry or are content.
Seek medical advice if your child:
- Has a fever for more than 5 days.
- Is not drinking as much as usual or has fewer wet nappies.
- Has a decreased activity level (isn’t their usual self).
- Is aged 3–6 months with a temperature of 39°C or higher.
Seek immediate help if your child:
- Is under 3 months old with a temperature of 38°C or higher.
- Has a non-blanching rash (the “Glass Test” rash).
- Is extremely lethargic or difficult to rouse.
- Has a high-pitched or continuous cry.
2. How to Accurately Measure a Child’s Temperature
For the most accurate reading, the NHS recommends using a digital thermometer.
- Under 5 years: Place the thermometer under their armpit.
- Avoid: Forehead strips or checking the forehead with your hand, as these are often unreliable.
3. Managing a Fever at Home
If your child is in the “Green” zone, you can manage their comfort at home:
- Hydration: Offer plenty of fluids (breast milk, formula, or water).
- Clothing: Keep them in light clothing. Do not “bundle them up” to sweat out the fever.
- Medication: You can use infant paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with discomfort (always follow the dosage on the bottle).
4. How “Calm or Call” Helps Parents
When your child is ill, it’s hard to think clearly. Our AI triage tool is programmed with the NICE Traffic Light logic. By answering simple questions about your child’s behaviour and symptoms, the tool helps you decide whether a call to the GP is necessary or if home monitoring is safe.
Summary: Traffic Light at a Glance
- Green: child alert, normal colour, hydrated — monitor at home.
- Amber: fever >5 days, less active, not drinking well — call GP or NHS 111.
- Red: under 3 months, non-blanching rash, very lethargic — call 999 or go to A&E.
- Not sure? Use the Calm or Call AI Triage for a quick assessment.
References & Verified Sources
- NHS UK: High temperature (fever) in children
- NICE Guidelines (CG160): Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management
- Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) — Parent resources
Clinical Verification — Content Strategy
Our triage logic and health guides are strictly mapped against NHS England and NICE clinical pathways to ensure accuracy and safety.
Ready to check your child’s symptoms using NHS-aligned AI triage?
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