Is 37.3℃ considered a fever?

Generally speaking, if the body temperature is measured under the armpit or orally, 37.3°C is considered a fever. However, if the temperature is measured rectally, 37.3°C is not considered a fever. Detailed analysis is as follows:

The normal axillary (underarm) temperature for adults ranges from 36 to 37°C, while for children it ranges from 36.5 to 37.2°C. Therefore, if the temperature is measured under the armpit, 37.3°C in both adults and children is generally considered a low-grade fever. The normal oral temperature for adults is 36.3–37.2°C, and for children it is also 36.2–37.2°C. In this case, 37.3°C is also considered a low-grade fever.

Rectal temperature: The normal rectal temperature for both adults and children ranges from 36.5 to 37.7°C. If the temperature is measured rectally, then 37.3°C falls within the normal range and is not considered a fever.

In addition to the measurement site, emotional stress, anxiety, and other factors may cause a temporary increase in body temperature, but this usually does not last long. Women may experience elevated body temperature during pregnancy or ovulation, which is considered a physiological increase in temperature. Furthermore, body temperature fluctuates periodically throughout the day, typically being lower in the morning and higher in the evening.

If the body temperature is 37.3°C, and the individual is in good general condition without other significant symptoms, it is advisable to drink an appropriate amount of warm water or warm saline to prevent dehydration caused by sweating during fever. Physical cooling methods can also be applied, such as wiping the palms, soles of the feet, and armpits with warm water. If the temperature continues to rise or is accompanied by other symptoms, timely medical consultation is recommended for further examination to determine the cause of the fever.