Is a temperature of 37 degrees considered a fever?
A colleague has a cold. I used a thermometer to take her temperature, and it read 37°C. Is a temperature of 37°C considered a fever?
Doctor's answer (1)
A body temperature of 37°C is generally not considered a fever.
The normal body temperature range varies due to individual differences, measurement methods, time of day, and other factors. Typically, an oral temperature between 36.3-37.2°C, a rectal temperature between 36.5-37.7°C, and an axillary (underarm) temperature between 36.0-37.0°C are considered normal. A temperature exceeding the normal range but below 38°C is usually classified as a low-grade or mild fever. Therefore, a temperature of 37°C is not strictly defined as a fever. However, in some cases—for example, in individuals with a lower baseline temperature or those whose temperature consistently remains at 37°C—it may indicate a mild inflammatory response or the early stage of an infection.
In general, a temperature of 37°C falls within the normal range, but other factors such as individual baseline temperature and whether the person is at the early stage of an illness should also be considered. If symptoms such as fatigue, headache, or muscle pain accompany even a slight temperature increase, it should be taken seriously. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical consultation and examination are recommended.
