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This article relates to paediatric health. All information is educational only. Decisions regarding a child's health must be made by a licensed physician in consultation with parents or legal guardians.
This content is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed KMA physician for personalised guidance.
Fever in children is one of the most common reasons parents visit the emergency department in Korea. Most fevers are caused by viral infections and resolve on their own — but certain signs require urgent medical attention.
Fever is defined as a body temperature above 38°C (100.4°F). It is not a disease itself but a symptom — usually the immune system's response to infection. Most fevers in children are caused by viral infections (cold, flu, gastroenteritis) and resolve within 3–5 days without serious complications.
In Korea, the most common viral infections causing childhood fever include influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rotavirus, and adenovirus. Bacterial infections (ear infections, urinary tract infections, strep throat, pneumonia) are less common but more serious causes.
Managing fever at home: The goal is to keep the child comfortable, not to bring temperature down to exactly normal. Paracetamol (15 mg/kg every 4–6 hours) or ibuprofen (5–10 mg/kg every 6–8 hours — not under 3 months) are safe and effective. Dress the child in light clothing, ensure adequate fluids, and monitor regularly. Avoid aspirin in children under 16 (risk of Reye syndrome). Tepid sponging is no longer recommended as a routine measure.
Febrile convulsions (fits triggered by fever) affect 2–4% of children aged 6 months to 5 years. While frightening, simple febrile seizures (lasting under 5 minutes, affecting the whole body) are generally benign and leave no lasting harm. Stay calm, lay the child on their side, time the seizure, and seek medical attention.
Seasonal note: Children are at greater risk of fever-related dehydration during Korea's hot, humid summer months. Ensure frequent fluid intake during fever, especially in summer.
Key Points
- Fever (>38°C) is the immune response to infection — most resolve within 3–5 days
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen (not aspirin) can reduce temperature and relieve discomfort
- Adequate fluids are the most important home management strategy
- Febrile convulsions in children under 5 are common and usually harmless
- Infants under 3 months with any fever must be seen by a doctor urgently
- Fever with rash, stiff neck, or difficulty breathing requires immediate emergency care
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infections — cold, flu, gastroenteritis (most common)
- Bacterial infections — ear infections, tonsillitis, UTI, pneumonia
- Vaccinations — mild fever is normal in the 24–48 hours post-vaccine
- Teething — minor temperature elevation only; high fever is not caused by teething
- Heat exposure — heat exhaustion during Korea's summer
When to See a Doctor
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months old — call 119 or go to the emergency department
- Fever over 39°C in a baby aged 3–6 months
- Fever lasting more than 5 days
- Child is inconsolable, very drowsy, or unusually difficult to wake
- Non-blanching rash (rash that does not fade when pressed) — meningococcal emergency
- Stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or severe headache
- Signs of dehydration — no urination for 8 hours, sunken eyes, dry mouth
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
Sources & References
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026