Fever

What is a fever?
A fever is usually a sign of a viral or bacterial infection. Viruses and bacteria have a hard time surviving at temperatures higher than body temperature so a fever is the body's way of fighting an infection. Fever increases blood flow to speed up the body's defense actions.

  • High Fever = above 39.0ºC (102.2ºF)
  • Fever = 37.5 — 39.0ºC (99.5 — 102.2ºF)
  • Normal = 36.5 — 37.5ºC (97.9 — 99.5ºF)
Always have a thermometer in your household to take your temperature when needed. Use a digital thermometer as directed.

How to take an oral temperature

  • Wait 10 minutes after drinking hot or cold liquids
  • Place the tip of the oral thermometer under your tongue, on one side toward the back of the mouth
  • Hold the thermometer with your lips, not your teeth
  • Do not breathe through your mouth while taking your temperature as it will lower the temperature and give an inaccurate reading
  • Leave the thermometer in place for 3 minutes before removing to read the temperature

What to do if you have a fever

  • Take acetaminophen every 4 hours until the temperature returns to normal
  • Drink plenty of fluids, at least 4 to 8 cups, per day. This includes water, fruit juice, etc.
  • Take your temperature every 4 hours or when you feel your fever is worsening
  • If you start shivering, dress warmly until it stops, then dress lightly again
  • Don't exercise
  • Don't use alcohol rubs
  • For high fevers, put cold packs or cool wash cloths on your neck, groin, and under the armpits REST

When should you see a doctor?
If you have any of the following symptoms:

  • A fever higher than 39ºC (102.2ºF) taken orally that won't go down after self-care
  • A high fever accompanied by a serious medical condition
  • Prolonged fever for more than 3 days
  • You have a severe headache, are hallucinating or are acting confused
  • You have a stiff neck (you can't touch your chin to your chest)
  • Abnormal breathing or pain in the chest with deep breaths
  • You have redness, swelling, and pain anywhere on the body
  • Persistent ear pain or pain in the sinuses (face)
  • Persistent sore throat
  • Urinary pain, burning, or frequency
  • Green, yellow, or bloody-colored discharge from the nose, throat, or ears
  • Diarrhea, vomiting or abdominal pain

Next: Finding a Doctor

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