What is the normal body temperature for children?

When measured orally, normal body temperature should be between 36.4°C and 37.5°C; when measured under the armpit, the normal range is from 36.0°C to 37.2°C; while measured rectally, which is commonly used for infants and young children, the normal range is 36.6°C to 37.7°C; the normal range for rectal temperature is 36.5°C to 37.5°C.

Within the field of pediatrics, a child's normal body temperature range is an important indicator reflecting the child's physiological status. Generally speaking, the normal temperature range for children is slightly higher than that of adults. However, a child's thermoregulatory center is not yet fully developed, so body temperature may fluctuate more significantly. Additionally, a child's body temperature can be affected by various factors such as activity level, environmental temperature, and time of day. Therefore, when determining whether a child has a fever, the assessment should consider the child's specific presentation and symptoms comprehensively.

If a child's temperature remains consistently elevated or low, is accompanied by other discomfort symptoms, or if the child's temperature exceeds 37.5°C, especially when accompanied by symptoms of discomfort, prompt medical attention should be sought.