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Fever 39.5C - when to go to A&E vs ride it out?

13mo, fever 39.5C, took Calpol, still high. Drinking, alert, no other concerning symptoms. Stay home or go in?

5 Replies

bubbly-axolotl 4/29/2026

NHS guidance: under 3mo any fever = A&E, 3-6mo over 39 = call 111, over 6mo it's behaviour that matters more than number.

warm-finch 5/1/2026

Call 111 first - they'll triage. Often they'll book you a same-day GP appointment.

lovely-penguin 5/1/2026

If they're alert and drinking, you have time. Concerning signs: lethargy, mottled skin, not weeing, neck stiffness, rash.

lovely-lamb 5/2/2026

We've been to A&E several times. Always say 'they told us to come if X'. Don't second guess.

nimble-lemur 5/5/2026

Calpol + Nurofen alternating every 2 hours if needed. Made a big difference for us.