When to Go to the Hospital for Fever in Adults and Children

Adults should head to the hospital for fevers reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher that don't reduce with over-the-counter medications.

If the fever persists or does not start to decrease within two hours after medication, it's important to seek medical attention.

Specific Symptoms: Look for urgent symptoms accompanying a fever that demand immediate hospital care:

• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Rash
• Persistent vomiting
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Confusion

These could be signs of a serious condition.

Fevers in toddlers can signal serious issues, so careful monitoring is crucial.

Hospitalize your child if they show any of the following:

• Fever over 102°F (38.9°C)
• Severe lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., no wet diapers)
• Rash
• Inconsolable crying

Children’s symptoms can progress quickly and may differ from adults', such as lacking typical shivering. 

Additionally, the Mayo Clinic provides detailed guidelines on how to manage fevers in different age groups, emphasizing the importance of understanding when medical intervention is needed​​.