Medically Reviewed by Dr Simone Quek, M.B.B.S (Singapore)
Fever in children can be alarming for any parent. One of the most common symptoms of illness, fever can signal anything from a minor viral infection to a more serious condition. In the age of heightened awareness about infectious diseases, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, many parents wonder whether they should quarantine their child when a fever appears.
Is isolation always necessary, or can other strategies be more appropriate? Understanding the nature of children fever and when it becomes a cause for isolation is key to making the right decision for your child and household.
Understanding Children Fever: What Does It Mean?
Children fever, defined as a body temperature of 38°C and above, is a common immune response to infection. Most fevers in children are caused by viral infections, which tend to resolve on their own. Occasionally, fever can be due to bacterial infections such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, or, more rarely, more serious illnesses like pneumonia or dengue fever.
It’s important to recognise that children fever itself is not an illness—it is a symptom. The cause of the fever, along with other symptoms your child may be exhibiting, determines whether additional actions such as isolation are necessary.
When Is Quarantine Necessary?
The decision to quarantine your child should depend on several factors, including the suspected cause of the fever, how contagious the illness is, and your living situation. For most mild viral infections like the common cold, complete isolation may not be needed. However, if the child is attending school or childcare, keeping them home until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours (without medication) is a recommended practice in Singapore.
Quarantine may be appropriate in the following situations:
- If your child tests positive for a contagious illness such as COVID-19 or influenza.
- If they have been exposed to others with confirmed contagious diseases.
- If they are showing symptoms that strongly indicate a highly infectious condition, especially during outbreak seasons.
In such cases, keeping your child isolated from other household members, particularly vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses, is advisable.
Distinguishing Between Isolation and Rest at Home
There is a difference between keeping your child home to rest and fully quarantining them. In many cases of children fever, what the child needs most is rest, hydration, and monitoring—not necessarily being confined to a separate room.
If your child is old enough to understand and follow hygiene practices (like using tissues and washing hands), and the suspected illness is not highly contagious, simple measures such as reduced social interaction and good hygiene may be enough. For younger children, complete isolation can be emotionally stressful and challenging to implement.
How Long Should You Keep Your Child at Home?
The general guideline in Singapore is to keep children at home until they are symptom-free and fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. This not only helps prevent the spread of infection to others but also ensures your child has had adequate rest to recover properly.
For illnesses that require a doctor’s confirmation of non-contagious status, such as Hand Foot Mouth Disease, you should follow the medical advice given. Some cases may require a longer period of isolation, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Preventing the Spread of Illness in the Household
If your child is experiencing a fever, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of transmission to other family members:
- Ensure your child washes their hands frequently.
- Encourage them to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, toys, and electronic devices.
- Avoid sharing utensils, towels, and other personal items.
- Maintain good ventilation in shared spaces.
If you have more than one child, try to limit their interaction during the illness, especially if the cause of the fever is suspected to be viral or contagious.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most children fever resolve within a few days, certain signs warrant medical attention:
- A fever that lasts more than three days.
- A temperature above 40°C.
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Lethargy, irritability, or signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, reduced urination).
In Singapore, access to quality paediatric care is readily available. If in doubt, consult a family doctor or paediatrician to determine the cause of the fever and whether quarantine is necessary.
School Guidelines and Notifications
Many schools and childcare centres in Singapore have clear guidelines regarding pediatric fever. Parents are usually required to inform the school of their child’s illness, especially if it is part of a reportable outbreak.
Children may also need a clearance memo from a doctor to return to school after recovering from certain illnesses. It is helpful to familiarise yourself with your child’s school health policies so you can act quickly and responsibly when a fever occurs.
The Role of Vaccination in Preventing Fever-Causing Illnesses
One of the most effective ways to prevent fever-related illnesses in children is through vaccination. Vaccines such as the influenza vaccine, chickenpox, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), and others significantly reduce the risk of contagious diseases that commonly present with fever.
Singapore’s National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) outlines a comprehensive vaccination plan for children. Staying up to date with these vaccines not only protects your child but also reduces the likelihood that you will face a decision about quarantine due to a preventable disease.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to quarantine your child when they have a fever depends on the cause, severity, and your household situation. While not every instance of fever in children requires full isolation, it is crucial to err on the side of caution, particularly during outbreak seasons or when the illness is known to be highly contagious.
With proper rest, hygiene, and medical advice, most children recover quickly without the need for strict quarantine. However, knowing when to act and how to reduce the risk of spread ensures the well-being of your child and those around them.
Worried About Your Child’s Fever? We’re Here to Help
At Keystone Clinic & Surgery, our experienced doctors provide prompt diagnosis and care for children’s fever, helping parents make informed decisions about isolation, school attendance, and treatment.
Ensure peace of mind and expert care when your child is unwell. Book an appointment at Keystone Clinic & Surgery and receive professional support in managing children fever and other paediatric concerns.
References
Texaschildrens.org. When Can My Child Be Around Other Kids After Being Sick?. https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/wellness/when-can-my-child-be-around-other-kids-after-being-sick
Webmd.com. How Long Should I Stay Home With a Cold or the Flu?. https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/stay-home-cold-flu
Chla.org. When to Call the Doctor for Your Child’s Fever. https://www.chla.org/blog/advice-experts/when-call-doctor-your-childs-fever