If your baby has a fever, there are several things you can do at home to help lower the fever and make your baby more comfortable:

1. Take your babys temperature using a digital thermometer. Rectal thermometers are the most accurate for babies.

2. If your baby is younger than 2 months old and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher, call your babys doctor immediately.

3. If your baby has a fever greater than 101 degrees and is lethargic or you cant get him or her to wake up normally, take your baby to the emergency room immediately.

4. Dress your baby in light, comfortable clothing. Overdressing can trap the bodys heat and make the temperature go higher.

5. Give your baby extra fluids to prevent dehydration. For babies under age 1, offer breast milk or formula.

6. Bathe your baby in lukewarm water. Never use cold water or alcohol to bathe your baby because it may cause shivering and actually increase body temperature.

7. Offer your baby regular fluids and make sure your baby has tears when crying, a moist mouth, and regular wet diapers.

8. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help lower fever in children. Your childs doctor may tell you to use both types of medicine.

9. Do not bundle up your baby with blankets or extra clothes, even if the baby has the chills. This may keep the fever from coming down, or make it go higher.

10. The room should be comfortable, not too hot or too cool. If the room is hot or stuffy, a fan may help.

11. Do not use cold baths, ice, or alcohol rubs. These often make the situation worse by causing shivering.

If your babys fever does not improve or gets worse, or if your baby has other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, vomiting, or a rash, call your babys doctor immediately.