Cold, flu, RSV: When fevers need a same-day visit
Know when a fever means it's time for a same-day visit.
The winter months bring us inside more — and that can lead to an uptick in seasonal illnesses such as cold, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). While the symptoms and treatment sometimes differ, it's important to always monitor these viruses for fever. A fever is when your body temperature is higher than normal, usually 100.4° F (38° C) or higher.
Fever isn't usually dangerous, and minor fevers will generally run their course within a few days. But there are certain signs you should look for to determine whether you or a loved one should go to the emergency room.
Symptoms of a common cold
Colds are spread throughout the year, but in the closeness of winter they can become more contagious. Common symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Stuffy, runny nose
- Cough
Fever is rare among people with colds. The best remedies include rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms. However, if you do have a fever, it could be the flu.
Seasonal flu symptoms
The influenza virus shares many symptoms with a cold. One difference is the presence of chills, pains, aches and fever. Fatigue and headache are also indicators of flu, as is vomiting or diarrhea, but those are most common in children.
Although fevers are a common response to illness or infection, there are times when a fever should be cause for concern — especially for babies and young children — and warrants a trip to the hospital.
Symptoms and treatment of RSV
According to the CDC, every year as many as 80,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized due to RSV. This virus is highly contagious and is particularly effective at causing several respiratory infections in infants six months old and younger.
Most children will have had RSV by the time they turn two. Like a cold, RSV symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- Decreased appetite
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
In infants less than six months old, symptoms may include irritability, decreased activity, decreased appetite and breathing issues.
RSV typically clears up on its own after a week or two. To help relieve mild symptoms, you can give your baby over-the-counter pain and fever medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. However, since some medications are not recommended for children, talk to your pediatrician before using any nonprescription cold medicines.
When to go to the emergency room for a fever
Children
It can be scary when your child has a fever, but it's a good sign that their immune system is fighting off infection. You usually will not need to give your child fever-reducing medicine unless they are in pain or uncomfortable. It can also be helpful to call your child's pediatrician before taking them to the emergency room. However, a fever of 105° F or higher in any child is considered a medical emergency, and you should go to the emergency room immediately.
Newborns and adolescents
Call your doctor if your child has a temperature of 100.4° F (38° C) or higher. You should go to the emergency room if your child has a fever and any of the following symptoms:
- Rapid or difficult breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty waking up
- Nonstop crying (inconsolable)
- Rash
- Vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
- Inability to urinate
- Abdominal pain
- Stiff neck
- Seizure
- Severe headache
When should an adult go to the ER for a fever?
Fever in healthy adults isn't usually dangerous. But, if your fever reaches or surpasses 103° F (39.4° C) and is followed by any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Painful urination or urine that smells bad
- Seizure
- Severe pain (abdominal pain, headache, muscle pain)
Find an emergency room near you at /specialties/emergency-care.