What Constitutes a Fever?

Traditionally, the average normal body temperature is generally accepted to be around 98.6°F (37°C).

However, several studies have shown that "normal" body temperature can vary, depending on factors like age, time of day, and the method of measurement. Some people naturally run a little cooler or warmer than others.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and many pediatricians consider a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher as the definition of fever in infants and children. For oral temperature, the threshold is a little lower at 100°F (37.8°C). By these standards, 99.6°F would not typically be considered a fever.