Bronchiolitis without fever: what parents should know

Fever is not required for bronchiolitis. The illness affects the small airways and may cause a runny nose, cough, wheeze, faster breathing, or difficulty feeding. Some children have normal temperature while congestion and airway swelling still make breathing tiring. The absence of fever does not show how mild the breathing problem is. Read more about [Bronchiolitis](/conditions/bronchiolitis/) and notice whether your child is alert between symptoms.

A thermometer is useful, but observe the chest and tummy: skin pulling in between the ribs, nostril flaring, grunting, or pauses deserve attention. Babies may take less milk because sucking and breathing together is difficult.

Keep the child rested and away from smoke. Offer smaller, frequent breastfeeds or formula feeds, with pauses for breathing. Saline drops and gentle nose clearing before feeds may reduce blockage. Record wet nappies and note changes in alertness, colour, cough, or [wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/). Do not start antibiotics, cough medicines, or inhaled treatments without clinical advice. If the pattern is unclear, arrange a [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/).

Get urgent help for blue or grey lips, breathing pauses, severe effort, marked sleepiness, or inability to drink. Seek prompt assessment when feeds are repeatedly reduced, wet nappies become less frequent, breathing is getting harder, or symptoms are worsening even though there is no [fever](/symptoms/fever/). A persistent [cough](/symptoms/cough/) should be considered alongside breathing and hydration, not temperature alone.

Ask which breathing changes should trigger same-day review, how much fluid your child should manage, and how to check hydration. Ask whether a [Nebuliser Treatment](/treatments/acute-and-urgent-care/nebuliser-treatment/) has a role and when to repeat an assessment.