Fever in a Newborn

Fever is a normal response to infection in adults, but only about half of newborns with an infection have fever. Some, especially premature babies, may have a lowered body temperature with infection, or other signs such as;

• Change in behavior
• Feeding less than normal
• Vomiting
• Trouble breathing
• Sleeping more than normal
• Fingertips or lips turning blue

While it is important to keep a baby from becoming chilled, a baby can also become overheated with many layers of clothing and blankets.

This can occur at home, near heaters, or near heat vents. It can also occur when a baby is over-bundled in a heated car.

Avoid placing a baby in direct sunlight, even through a window.

Never leave a baby in a hot car, even for a minute. The temperature can rise quickly and cause heat stroke and death.

An overheated baby may have a hot, red, or flushed face, and may be restless.

To prevent overheating, keep rooms at a normal temperature, about 72 to 75° F, and dress your baby just like you and others in the room.