The normal body temperature is generally around 37°C, although this can vary slightly from person to person, and it may be affected by factors like time of day, the weather, how much you’re running around or the type and amount of clothing worn.1 Fever is when your body temperature rises above 38°C.1
A fever is often a sign your body is fighting some kind of underlying illness and is often a symptom of infection. Both bacterial and viral infections can cause fever.1
While fever symptoms can leave you feeling pretty miserable, a low-grade fever (a temperature of 38–39°C) is usually no cause for alarm.1,2 Most of the time fever will get better within a few days, and often can be managed at home.1
Fever is a common symptom of bacterial and viral infections. Examples include infections that cause colds and flu.3
In addition to high temperature, fever is also often associated with symptoms like sweating, shivering, chattering teeth, headache, flushed skin, aching muscles, and general weakness.1
Sickness isn’t always the reason you get a fever. Fever can also be caused by reactions to medicines or immunisations, or certain medical conditions.1,3
Fever is a part of your body’s defences/weaponry against infection.1
Your body temperature is controlled by a part of your brain called the hypothalamus. It’s like a kind of thermostat - when you’re healthy, the hypothalamus sets your body to a normal temperature of about 37°C.1
But when you’re sick with an infection, your immune system releases chemicals that make the hypothalamus reset your body to a higher temperature. You begin to feel cold, and you start to shiver. You bundle up in warm clothing. All of this causes your body temperature to rise.1
This rise in body temperature helps your body fight the bacteria or viruses that are causing the infection.1
To help relieve the discomfort of fever:3,4
Consult with your doctor at any stage if you feel worried or concerned about your, or a child's, fever symptoms.
Seek urgent medical attention:5
Children under 3 months of age with a fever
A person of any age with a fever, headache and stiff neck, or has rash that doesn’t blanche (fade) when pressed
A person of any age with a fever who also experiences unexpected or unusual symptoms like hallucinations, muscle spasms or feels confused or drowsy.
See a doctor:
Children over 3 months of age, including adults who experience:
Or if you or someone you are caring for:
References:
First published: 19th May 2021
Last updated: 14th September 2023
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