Generally, you can wait two or three days with older children with mild illnesses. Although parents worry about fevers, most children tolerate them fairly well. If your child is responding normally and drinking fluids, there is probably nothing to worry about. Remember, fever actually helps the body fight infections. There are, however, some signs and symptoms that warrant a call to your doctor. Call your doctor if any of the following occur:
A temperature of over 100.5 rectally in an infant less than 3 months old
Complaints of severe pain
Signs of dehydration (sunken soft spot on the head, dry mouth and lips, decreased urination)
Difficulty breathing
A temperature over 102 for more than 24 hours in a child 3 months to 2 years
A temperature over 102 degrees for more than 3 days in a child over the age of 2 years
Changes in behavior
Constant vomiting or diarrhea
Earache or pulling at the ears
Complaints or signs of a severe sore throat
Complaints of abdominal pain
Listlessness, whimpering, or unresponsiveness
Complaints or signs of a stiff neck
Complaints of a severe headache
High-pitched crying in an infant
Child cries and cries -- you can not comfort them
Red rash or blue/purple dots
The child is not getting better or does not look good