Fever in children

Our normal body temperature is between 36.5C and 37.5C. The body’s temperature is usually a little lower in the morning and a little higher in the evening. The body temperature can also fluctuate as kids play, run around and exercise.

The body has a thermostat that regulates our body temperature. Fever occurs when the body’s internal “thermostat” raises the body temperature above its normal level. This thermostat is found in the part of the brain called hypothalamus. 

Researchers believe that turning up the heat is the body’s way of fighting the germs that cause infections and making the body less comfortable for them. That is why many doctors think that fever is a good thing as it means that your body’s immune system is fighting the infection or other illnesses.

Confirmation of fever in children

Use a reliable thermometer to confirm a fever (which is when a child’s temperature is at or above one of these levels):

38C measured rectally (in the bottom)

37.5C measured orally (in the mouth)

37C measured in an axillary position (under the arm)

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