(HealthDay News) -- When children aged 3 or older run a fever, it doesn't necessarily mean that they've got a dangerous illness.

The Nemours Foundation says the following symptoms indicate that your child may not be seriously ill, despite running a fever:

• Your child continues to play normally.
• Your child wants to drink fluids, and has a normal appetite.
• Your child smiles and seems alert.
• Your child's skin appears normal.
• Your child looks healthy after the fever breaks.

If you're not sure about the severity of your child's illness, take him or her to the pediatrician.