What is normal body temperature?
Normal body temperature is about 37°C (98.6°F), but it varies between people and through the day. Readings from about 36.1°C to 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F) are usually normal.
The figure of 37°C comes from German doctor Carl Wunderlich, who measured millions of readings in the 1800s. More recent studies suggest that average body temperature today is a little lower, around 36.6°C (97.9°F).
Body temperature is lowest in the early morning and highest in the late afternoon. It also depends on where it is measured: readings from the mouth, ear, armpit and rectum can differ by about half a degree. Exercise, hot weather and hormones can raise it slightly.
What counts as a fever
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher is generally considered a fever. Fever is usually the body's way of fighting an infection. Very high fevers, or fevers in young babies, need prompt medical attention.
Did You Know?
The body keeps its core temperature steady using sweat, shivering and changes in blood flow to the skin, controlled by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus.
This answer is general information, not medical advice. For a personal health question, talk to a doctor.