When Does a Fever Start?

When Does a Fever Start?

Common question

What is considered a fever in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic?

CDC considers a person to have a fever when he or she has a measured temperature of 100.4° F (38° C) or greater, or feels warm to the touch, or gives a history of feeling feverish.

What is considered to be fever for COVID-19?

The average normal body temperature is generally accepted as 98.6°F (37°C). Some studies have shown that the "normal" body temperature can have a wide range, from 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C).

A temperature over 100.4°F (38°C) most often means you have a fever caused by an infection or illness.

Maya Lin-Takahashi
Author

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.