I have a 101 fever: what should I do?

Fever is a rise in body temperature triggered by the immune system or another process. The number alone does not show how serious the illness is; age, overall health, duration, and accompanying symptoms matter. Cough, sore throat, congestion, vomiting, diarrhoea, rash, urinary symptoms, or pain can help a clinician identify the source. A fever may accompany a [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/), [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/), [Acute Bronchitis](/conditions/acute-bronchitis/), or other infection. Fever in a young infant, a frail older adult, or someone with reduced immunity deserves a lower threshold for medical advice.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and wear light clothing in a comfortable room. Recheck the temperature with the same reliable method and note when it began, how it changes, and any new symptoms. You may use a fever-relief medicine only if it is suitable for you and according to the package directions; check with a pharmacist if you have liver or kidney disease, ulcers, are pregnant, or take regular medicines. Do not give aspirin to children or combine products that contain the same ingredient. Stay home from close contact while unwell and follow local advice if a contagious infection is suspected.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, severe dehydration, fainting, a seizure, confusion, a stiff neck, or a rapidly spreading rash. Contact a clinician if the fever persists, keeps returning, or is accompanied by severe pain, worsening cough, painful urination, or a concerning rash. Children with a barking cough or noisy breathing may need assessment for [Croup](/conditions/croup/); babies and people with weakened immunity should be assessed promptly.

Ask what may be causing the fever, how often to check it, which medicine is safe with your health conditions, and which changes should trigger urgent review.