Vicks Media Backgrounder EN - Kaz Europe SA

KAZ S.A.’S GUIDE TO FEVER AND THERMOMETERS
1. What is Fever?
If body temperature is consistently above normal temperature range, the patient is said to have a
fever. Fevers are a defence mechanism the body uses to fight infections and are therefore
frequently associated with illnesses. Yet fevers alone are not an illness, only a symptom.
Babies and young children commonly have up to 12 infections per year, and on average seven of
these cause a fever. Many of them are harmless, such as a sore throat or a cold. But they can be
more dangerous, including acute ear infections, or even life-threatening, like meningitis. On
average, school-age children have around three febrile infections per year and adults two.
2. Temperature measurement
Temperatures are taken most commonly in the ear (tympanic measurement), in the mouth (orally
measurement), under the arm (auxiliary measurement) or in the bottom (rectally measurement).
Each method is considered accurate when done correctly. Except for ear thermometers, most
digital thermometers are universal, meaning temperature can be taken orally, rectally or under
the arm. Temperature readings can differ slightly depending on the method, so be sure to use the
same method for the sake of consistency.
• Ear
Ear measurements are gentle, easy and fast, and thus preferred by many parents. However, the
temperature often varies between readings, leading to the misconception that ear thermometers
are inaccurate. To minimise this effect, it’s very important to use the correct ear thermometer. A
reading of 38°C or higher is generally considered as fever.
• Oral
Oral temperature taking is generally recommended for children who are at least four years of age
and can easily hold the thermometer in their mouth. A reading of 37.5°C or higher is generally
considered a fever.
• Underarm
This is a safe and straightforward method for children of all ages. A reading of 37°C or higher is
generally considered as fever.
• Rectal
Taking a baby’s rectal temperature is not difficult and does not have to be uncomfortable for
either the baby or the parent. There are some thermometers designed especially for rectal
measurements that make it fast and easy. A reading of 38°C or higher is generally considered a
fever.
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