What should you know about bronchiolitis fever duration?

Bronchiolitis can begin with a cold, then cause cough, noisy breathing, and feeding difficulty. Fever may be present, but it is not required for bronchiolitis. The temperature reading matters alongside the child's behaviour, breathing effort, and ability to drink. See [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) and [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/) for related information. A fever that returns after the child seemed better, or fever with marked lethargy, may point to another infection and should be reviewed.

Use a reliable thermometer and record readings with the time and any medicine given. Encourage frequent small feeds, keep clothing comfortable, and do not use cold baths or alcohol rubs. Give a fever medicine only if suitable for the child's age and health, following the product directions or a clinician's advice. Watch for [Cough](/symptoms/cough/), [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/), breathing effort, and wet nappies.

Get urgent help for blue or grey lips, breathing pauses, severe chest pulling-in, grunting, or a child who is difficult to wake. Seek prompt advice when the child drinks much less, passes fewer wet nappies, appears increasingly unwell, or the fever persists or returns. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) allows a clinician to examine the child and check hydration.

Ask how often to check the temperature, which fever medicine is suitable, when reduced feeding becomes concerning, and whether breathing needs reassessment.