Conditions We Treat in Children
Urgent Care vs. ER for Children
| Go to Urgent Care for | Go to the ER for |
|---|---|
| Ear infections, strep, UTI, pink eye | Any fever in infant under 3 months |
| Fever in children over 3 months (under 104°F) | Difficulty breathing or wheezing at rest |
| Flu, cough, sinus infection | Seizure or loss of consciousness |
| Minor cuts needing stitches | Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) |
| Sprains and minor fractures | Head injury with loss of consciousness |
| Sports physicals | Severe, sudden abdominal pain |
- Any fever (100.4°F / 38°C or higher) — always an emergency in newborns
- Difficulty breathing or unusual breathing sounds
- Persistent crying that cannot be consoled
- Limpness or unusual lethargy
Illinois AllKids: Free Health Coverage for Children
AllKids is Illinois Medicaid for children. Most Illinois children qualify regardless of immigration status. Coverage includes urgent care, doctor visits, prescriptions, dental, and vision. Apply at abe.illinois.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can urgent care see infants and toddlers in Cicero?
Yes. Most urgent care clinics in Cicero see children of all ages. However, for infants under 3 months with any fever, go directly to the ER — fever in newborns is always a medical emergency.
What fever in a child requires urgent care?
Go to urgent care for children 3 months–3 years with fever 102°F or higher, or older children with fever above 104°F. Always go to the ER for any fever in an infant under 3 months.
Does urgent care treat ear infections in children?
Yes. Ear infections are the most common reason children visit urgent care. Providers examine the ear and prescribe antibiotics or advise watchful waiting based on age and symptoms.
Can my child get a sports physical at urgent care in Cicero?
Yes. Sports physicals are available same-day with no appointment. Most physicals cost $30–$60.
Does urgent care accept AllKids / Medicaid for children?
Many urgent care clinics in Cicero accept AllKids (Illinois children’s Medicaid). Bring your child’s AllKids card. If your child isn’t covered, apply at abe.illinois.gov.
Medical Disclaimer: Urgent Care Cicero is a free health information and urgent care directory — we are not a medical provider and do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information on this page is for general educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed doctor or qualified healthcare professional before making any health decision. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Sources: Content is based on publicly available guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus (NIH), and other peer-reviewed medical references.