Low fever temperature: what to know

Temperature changes naturally during the day and can vary with activity, clothing, the environment, and the site of measurement. A raised reading often occurs as the immune system responds to an infection. Common cold, COVID-19, acute bronchitis, and other infections can produce fever with cough, sore throat, aches, tiredness, or reduced appetite. A reading alone cannot identify the cause; the pattern and accompanying symptoms matter.

Measure with a reliable thermometer and record the reading, time, and method. Rest, drink fluids regularly, and wear light, comfortable clothing. Eat small amounts if you feel able. Use a fever medicine only if it is suitable for you and follow the package directions; check with a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have liver, kidney, stomach, or pregnancy concerns. Antibiotics do not treat viral illnesses unless a clinician identifies a bacterial infection that needs them.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, confusion, a seizure, severe drowsiness, a stiff neck, a new purple or non-blanching rash, or signs of serious dehydration. Infants, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system may need earlier assessment. Contact a clinician if the fever persists, keeps returning, or comes with a localised pain, worsening cough, painful urination, or a child who is unusually difficult to wake.

Ask whether the temperature was measured correctly, which causes fit your other symptoms, whether you need testing, and which fever medicine is safe with your conditions and regular medicines.