Is a baby's temperature of 36.7°C considered a fever?
Dec 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a baby's body temperature of 36.7°C is within the normal range and does not indicate fever. Fever refers to an elevated body temperature exceeding the normal range. It may be caused by factors such as emotional stress, intense physical activity, bacterial infection, viral infection, leukemia, or systemic lupus erythematosus. There are three common methods for measuring body temperature: axillary (underarm), oral (mouth), and rectal (anal) measurements.
Generally, a body temperature of 36.7°C in infants is considered normal and does not indicate fever. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature beyond the normal range. It may be caused by factors such as mental stress, intense physical activity, bacterial infection, viral infection, leukemia, or systemic lupus erythematosus. There are three common methods for measuring body temperature: axillary (under the arm), oral (in the mouth), and rectal (in the anus). The normal axillary temperature range for infants is 36.1°C–37°C; the normal oral temperature range is 36.6°C–37.2°C; and the normal rectal temperature range is 36.5°C–37.7°C. A temperature of 36.7°C falls within the normal range for all three measurement methods, indicating a normal body temperature and not fever, so there is no need for excessive concern.
If the infant experiences symptoms such as chills or shivering, it may suggest that the body temperature is still rising and has not yet peaked. In this case, it is recommended to monitor the temperature regularly, checking every 15 to 30 minutes, to determine whether the infant develops a fever. If fever does occur, prompt medical evaluation is advised to avoid delayed diagnosis and potential adverse effects on the infant's health.
