Underarm temperature

[SpanielFace]

I know underarm temperature is lower than internal temperature - DS's normal underarm temperature, when I've checked in the past, has always been 35.5 - 36 C or thereabouts. He's 12 months old and it's been 37.8 C tonight. I'm 99% certain it's a post vaccination fever - he has his MMR 9 days ago, and has no other symptoms. I've given him calpol, and he seems happier and is finally asleep in his cot, but I'm scared of him having a febrile convulsion while I'm asleep in the next room - he's never had a fever before & I don't know how high his temperature would have to go to be a concern. Anyone awake for some advice?

37.8 is a mild fever. Febrile convulsions wouldn't usually happen unless the temp was much higher - 38.5 or above. Calpol and keeping a close eye is the right thing to do provided he's otherwise well (eating and drinking, no rashes etc etc).

Thanks, I feel silly asking this but it has been confusing me - if a temperature over 38.5 C is dangerous, is that with an ear thermometer or under the arm? Underarm temperature supposedly reads about a degree below "real" temperature... Am I just over thinking this because its the middle of the night and I'm on my own with a poorly baby?

Hope this helps op.

DD had febrile convulsions, but her temp had to go over 40.0.

You will her your DS, even from the next room.

I´m sure he is going to be fine.

Thank you. He was fine - grumpy & awake every hour or so, as you'd expect, but his temperature has stayed down. It's always easier to feel more relaxed in the morning - googling medical questions at 2.30am is never a great idea! We've been very lucky, he's never had a great deal wrong with him so it's all new. DH has just got back so he's taken over & I'm going back to bed. Thank you for the replies.

Febrile convultions are to do with the sudden rise in temperature usually, not the high temperature in themselves. Some children do seem more prone to them than others though.