Fever is an important part of the body's defences against infection. Most bacteria and viruses that cause infections in people thrive best at 98.6 °F (37 °C).
Many infants and children develop high fevers with minor viral illnesses. Although fever is a sign that a battle might be going within the body, the fever is fighting for the person, not against him.
Usually, no brain damage will occur as a result of fever, unless it is higher than 107.6 °F (42 °C). Untreated fevers caused by infection will seldom exceed 105 °F (40.5 °C), unless the child is overdressed or trapped in a hot place.