The Best Fever Prevention Tips for World Health Day 2025

World Health Day (April 7) aims to highlight the importance of global action and universal health. Since fever is a very common symptom of various illnesses throughout the world, this is the perfect opportunity to bring awareness to some of the best prevention methods. Fever indicates that the body is fighting an infection, which can be alarming. Let’s explore some of the causes of fever, when to seek medical help, how to prevent fever, and how to diagnose it with fever thermometers.

The Main Causes of Fever

Fever is a common symptom of various illnesses, with the most frequent causes being infections like colds and the flu. An illness can be considered a fever when the body's internal "thermostat" raises the body temperature above normal. This is often a response to infections like the flu or the common cold. Inflammation, heat exhaustion, certain medications, and chronic conditions can also trigger fevers. Understanding these causes helps in addressing and preventing fever.

Your Normal Body Temperature Range

Knowing your usual body temperature range is crucial for recognizing fever signs early.

Normal body temperature averages at 98.6°F (37.0°C); which is also the average normal temperature measured when using an oral stick thermometer.

The measurement method you use can affect the temperature you see as a result, so it’s important to understand what the variance is between different measurement methods.

Use the following guidelines to assess whether or not your temperature is considered ‘normal’:

• Rectal / Ear:

• Rectal temperatures & Ear temperatures most often result in a 0.5°F - 1°F/0.3°C - 0.6°C higher measurement than oral temperatures.

• Armpit (Axillary) / Forehead:

• Underarm & Forehead temperatures most often result in a 0.5°F - 1°F/0.3°C - 0.6°C lower measurement than oral temperatures.

Please note: Temperature readings from different measurement sites should not be compared, as normal body temperature varies depending on the location and time of day. It typically reaches its lowest point about an hour before waking up and its highest in the evening. If you have any concerns about your temperature or the temperature of a dependent, reach out to your healthcare provider. Do not use a thermometer for self-diagnosis. 

When to Get Medical Attention

Normal temperatures and fever temperatures in adults vary widely, so it’s better to rely on concerning symptoms than temperature when determining when to seek medical attention. You should seek medical attention for a fever if it persists for more than three days or is accompanied by symptoms like severe headache, rash, breathing problems, or persistent vomiting. Immediate care is crucial for infants or individuals with weakened immune systems showing fever signs. 

Bring Awareness to Fever Prevention on World Health Day

World Health Day is an opportune moment to spotlight fever prevention. Global awareness campaigns can educate the public on recognizing fever symptoms, understanding when to seek medical advice, and following prevention measures to minimize the risk of infections leading to fever.

Hand Washing

 Regular hand washing is a simple yet effective way to prevent many infections that cause fever. Use soap and water to scrub your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.

Vaccinations

 Vaccines play a critical role in preventing diseases that can cause fever, such as the flu, pneumonia, and measles. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations as recommended by health authorities can significantly reduce the risk of these infections.

Fever in Children

 Children often experience fevers, which can be a source of concern for parents. In children, fevers are commonly caused by viral infections and are a sign that the body is actively fighting off pathogens. Unlike adults, children may develop a fever from minor illnesses or even from vaccination as their immune system responds.

Recognizing when a child's fever is a cause for concern involves monitoring other symptoms such as lethargy, irritability, dehydration, or difficulty breathing. For infants under 3 months, any fever is a reason to seek immediate medical attention. It's also important to know how to correctly take a child's temperature using age-appropriate thermometers and techniques. To learn more about fever thermometers, check out our fever thermometer FAQ page. 

Hydration and Fever Management

 Fever can lead to fluid loss, primarily through increased sweating due to the elevated body temperature. This can result in dehydration if the fluids are not replenished. Drinking plenty of water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths helps maintain hydration levels and aids the body in temperature regulation and recovery. For children and those unable to keep down fluids, small, frequent sips or the use of ice chips can be beneficial. Avoiding caffeinated or sugary beverages is recommended as they can lead to further dehydration.

The Role of Fever Medications

 Over-the-counter (OTC) fever-reducing medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), can be effective in lowering a high fever and relieving discomfort. However, it's important to use these medications according to the package instructions or a healthcare provider's recommendations. Misuse or overuse can lead to serious health issues. Always consult with a healthcare provider before giving any medication to children or if you have concerns about fever management. 

Rest in Fever Recovery

When the body is experiencing a fever, energy is focused on fighting the infection, and rest helps conserve energy so the immune system can work more efficiently. Encouraging a comfortable sleeping environment, limiting physical activity, and ensuring the person with a fever can rest undisturbed are key. For children, this might mean quiet play activities that don't require much movement. Adults should also heed the body's demand for rest, taking time off work and reducing daily tasks as much as possible.

Healthy Lifestyles

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle boosts the immune system, helping the body fight off infections that might lead to fever. This includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress.

Shop for Fever Thermometers at BIOS Medical

Having a reliable fever thermometer is a requirement for monitoring body temperatures. BIOS Medical carries a wide range of thermometers suited for different needs. Shop at BIOS Medical online to ensure you're always prepared to monitor fevers confidently.