What Temperature Counts as a Fever in Newborns?

Question

What Temperature Counts as a Fever in Newborns?

Answer

Fever is the phenomenon of a newborn’s body temperature rising above the normal range. The normal body temperature for newborns is slightly higher than that of adults, approximately between 36.5°C and 37.5°C. Once the temperature exceeds this range, it can be considered a fever. However, newborns have larger fluctuations in body temperature, and wearing too many or too few clothes can affect temperature readings. Therefore, it is best to use a reliable thermometer and measure multiple times to confirm whether a newborn has a fever. Generally, when a newborn’s body temperature exceeds 38°C, it can be considered a fever. But since the thermoregulatory center in newborns has not fully developed, they are more sensitive to temperature changes, and the definition of fever may vary between different medical institutions and regions. Therefore, if there is a suspicion of fever in a newborn, it is advisable to consult a medical professional promptly to receive accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.