Question
What is the normal armpit temperature for children?
Answer
The basic body temperature for pediatric patients is 36.9~37.5 degrees. Generally, a temperature lower than the basic body temperature by more than 1 degree can be considered a fever. Low fever refers to a temperature around 38 degrees, while high fever is when the temperature is above 39 degrees. Continuous fever for two weeks or more is known as prolonged fever. The aforementioned basic body temperature refers to rectal temperature, which is the temperature measured from the anus. The oral temperature is usually 0.3~0.5 degrees lower than the rectal temperature, and the armpit temperature is another 0.3~0.5 degrees lower than the oral temperature. If the armpit temperature measured is 38 degrees, the rectal temperature would need to reach 39 degrees, which is considered a high fever. If the body temperature is below 38.5 degrees, please consult a doctor immediately to determine whether it is a viral or bacterial infection.