Evaluation and Management of Febrile, Well-appearing Young Infants

Abstract

The evaluation and management of well-appearing febrile infants less than 3 months of age has presented a decades-long clinical conundrum for providers. This article reviews the epidemiology of bacterial and viral infections in these infants. It discusses evidence-based diagnostic and treatment strategies, including appropriate use of testing, admission to the hospital, use of antibiotics, and hospital discharge. It also highlights the substantial variation in care for febrile infants and provides strategies to standardize practice.

Keywords: Fever; Infant; Management; Serious bacterial infection; Viral illness.