Is Fever Harmful for Children? Why It's Actually a Good Sign

Dr. Sandip Gupta

Is fever in children harmful for the child's health? This video explains that it is actually a good sign. Why parents see it as bad: In general we treat fever as a bad sign — parents think that if fever comes the child will not eat, will become irritable, and will be distressed. What is actually happening: When there is an infection in our body, the body fights it. Fever is not a symptom of a disease — it is a symptom of the body's activity, which in a way is considered a good thing. Since fever comes because of the infection, we should not always be afraid of it. Relevant for: parents worried that fever itself will harm their child; parents asking whether fever is a disease or a symptom; parents wanting to understand what fever means about the body's response to infection; and parents whose child becomes irritable or stops eating during fever and who fear the fever itself. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician if the fever is very high, persists, or if your child appears unwell, is not feeding, or is unusually drowsy.