Question
What is the normal body temperature generally for children?
Answer
The normal baseline body temperature for young children ranges from 36.9 to 37.5 degrees Celsius. Generally, a body temperature exceeding the baseline by more than 1 degree Celsius can be considered a fever. Low fever refers to temperatures around 38 degrees Celsius, while high fever is defined as temperatures above 39 degrees Celsius. Continuous fever lasting two weeks or more is classified as a prolonged fever. If an armpit temperature measures 38 degrees Celsius, the rectal temperature would be close to 39 degrees Celsius, which is considered high fever. If the fever reaches or exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, it is crucial to have a doctor confirm whether it is caused by a viral infection or bacterial infection. Viral infections should be treated with antiviral medication, while bacterial infections require antibiotics (such as cephalosporins). Do not rush to reduce the fever; the fever is just a symptom, and the underlying cause needs to be identified.