Fever is a symptom, not a disease. Like all symptoms, for example cough or vomiting, Fever may be due to illnesses that are minor or serious. Fortunately, most Fevers in children are due to infections that are minor and self-limiting.
Most Fevers which are associated with illnesses range between 38.3°C and 40.0°C and last for 3 to 5 days. In general, the intensity of the Fever does not relate to the severity of the illness. How your child behaves is what counts. Fever does not cause brain damage but may cause harm if it is more than 41.0°C. Fortunately, the brain's thermostat keeps untreated Fevers below this level.
Most Fevers in children are due to infections that are minor and resolve on their own.
However, a low-grade Fever does not necessarily mean that the illness is minor. Similarly, a high Fever does not necessarily mean a serious illness. The effect of paracetamol on Fever does not indicate the severity of the illness.
Your child must see a doctor if he or she is less than three months of age and has a fever.