by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough

It is a very common question for parents and a very challenging issue for doctors. What do you do when a child under 3 has a fever?

From a parental standpoint I always give the same advice.  Don't hesitate to call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. In the first few months of life a fever needs to be carefully evaluated. In fact doctors have a complete set of laboratory tests that they have been trained to order as a reflex.

But, in a toddler, when is a fever a major concern? This much we know from a statistical standpoint.  About 90% of fevers are of viral origin and are self limited. The problem is figuring which are the other 10 percent.. That is when clinical judgment comes in handy.

As a parent always remember that a fever suggests something isn't normal and it needs attention.