If my baby is vomiting and has fever, what does that mean?

When vomiting and fever occur together, gastroenteritis (stomach-intestinal infection) is the most common cause in children, though other infections like urinary tract infections can also cause these signs. Your baby's age is the most critical factor. If your baby is under 3 months old and has fever of 38°C or higher, or if vomiting is severe or frequent, go to the ER immediately, regardless of other signs.

For a baby older than 3 months, the first step at home is preventing dehydration. Don't feed right after vomiting, as it triggers more vomiting; wait 15-20 minutes, then offer small sips of water or resume feeding/formula in tiny amounts, frequently. For fever, acetaminophen (paracetamol)-based liquid formulations exist—ask your pharmacist or pediatrician for dosing and product choice; don't dose on your own.

Seek immediate medical care if:

• More than 8 hours without a wet diaper (serious dehydration),
• Sunken eyes, no tears when crying, extreme fussiness or sleepiness,
• Blood or bile-colored (green-yellow) vomit,
• Fever 39°C or higher with accompanying rash or constant weakness,
• These signs appear.

Note: This is educational information, not medical advice. Always consult your doctor on medication and dosing.