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How To Treat A Viral Fever At Home

Unlike bacteria, viruses do not respond to antibiotics. In most cases, viral illnesses simply have to run their course. Staying hydrated or using over-the-counter fever-reducing medications can help until the virus resolves.

A viral fever is any fever that happens as a result of a viral infection. Viruses are tiny germs that spread easily from person to person.

When you contract a viral condition, such as a cold or flu, your immune system responds by going into overdrive. Part of this response often involves raising your body's temperature to make it less hospitable to the virus and other germs.

Most people's usual body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C). Anything 1 degree Celsius or more above this is considered a fever. Depending on the type of infection causing it, a fever can last anywhere from a couple of days to a week or longer.

While the virus runs its course, there are several things you can do to help manage your symptoms. Read on to learn more.

Fevers usually aren't something to worry about. But when they're high enough, they can pose some health risks.

For children

A high fever can be more dangerous for a young child than an adult. Here's when to call a doctor:

  • Children ages 0 to 3 months: Rectal temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
  • Children ages 3 to 6 months: Rectal temperature is above 101°F (38°C) and they're irritable or sleepy.
  • Children ages 6 to 24 months: Rectal temperature is above 101°F (38°C) that lasts for more than a day. If they have other symptoms, such as a rash, cough, or diarrhea, you may want to call sooner.
  • For children 2 and older, call a doctor if they have a fever that repeatedly rises above 100.4°F (38°C). Also, seek medical advice if your child has a fever and:

  • they seem unusually lethargic and irritable or have other severe symptoms
  • the fever lasts longer than 3 days
  • the fever doesn't respond to medication
  • they don't maintain eye contact with you
  • they can't keep fluids down
  • For adults

    Fevers can also be risky for adults in some cases. See a doctor for a fever that's 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that isn't responding to medication or lasts longer than 3 days.

    You should also seek treatment if a fever is accompanied by symptoms such as:

  • severe headache
  • rash
  • sensitivity to bright light
  • stiff neck
  • frequent vomiting
  • chest or abdominal pain
  • convulsions or seizures
  • In some instances, a severe fever can result in convulsions, seizures, or difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical support.

    A viral fever makes your body much warmer than usual. This causes your body to sweat in an effort to cool down. However, this leads to fluid loss, which can cause dehydration.

    Try to drink as much as you can when you have a viral fever to replenish lost fluids. It doesn't have to be just water, either. Any of the following can provide hydration:

  • juice
  • sports drinks
  • broths
  • soups
  • decaffeinated tea
  • Babies and toddlers may benefit from a specially formulated drink with electrolytes, such as Pedialyte. You can purchase these drinks at a local grocery store or online.

    A viral fever is a sign that your body is working hard to fight off an infection. Cut yourself some slack by resting as much as possible. Even if you can't spend the day in bed, try to avoid as much physical activity as possible. Aim for 7 hours or more of sleep per night. During the day, take it easy.

    It's also best to put your exercise routine on a temporary hold. Exerting yourself can further raise your temperature.

    Over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducers are the easiest way to manage a fever. In addition to temporarily reducing your fever, they'll help you feel a little less uncomfortable and more like yourself.

    Just make sure you keep getting plenty of rest, even if you feel better for a few hours after taking an OTC drug.

    Common OTC fever reducers include:

  • acetaminophen (Tylenol, Children's Tylenol)
  • ibuprofen (Advil, Children's Advil, Motrin)
  • aspirin
  • naproxen (Aleve)
  • Before taking OTC fever reducers, it's important to keep the following safety information in mind:

  • Never give aspirin to children. It can greatly increase the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but very serious condition.
  • Don't take more than what's recommended by the manufacturer. Doing so can lead to stomach bleeding, liver damage, or kidney problems.
  • Jot down the time when you take an OTC medication so you can make sure you don't take too much in a 24-hour period.
  • People sometimes try herbal remedies to treat a fever. Keep in mind that these supplements have been shown to improve fever in animals. There's no reliable evidence that they work in humans. Their safety in children is also often unclear or unknown, which why it is best to avoid these remedies in children.

    It's also important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't monitor the quality of supplements like they do for drugs. You should speak with a doctor before trying any supplements and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

    Moringa

    Moringa is a tropical plant that has a variety of nutritional and medicinal benefits. Almost all parts of the plant contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial agents. An older 2014 study found that moringa bark reduced fevers in rabbits.

    More research is needed to determine how this plant can reduce fevers in humans.

    You should avoid using moringa if you:

  • are pregnant
  • take medications that are substrates of cytochrome P450, such as lovastatin (Altoprev), fexofenadine (Allegra), or ketoconazole (Nizoral)
  • Kudzu root

    Kudzu root is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain. Research suggests that it may be effective in treating fever, diarrhea, and inflammatory diseases. However, further research is still needed.

    You should avoid using kudzu root if you:

    If you take diabetes medications, you should talk with a doctor before trying kudzu root. It may lead to low blood sugar, requiring a change in medication.

    You can find kudzu root in the form a powder, capsule, or liquid extract online.

    You can help cool down your body by surrounding it with cooler temperatures. Make sure you don't overdo it. If you start to shiver, stop immediately. Shivering can cause your fever to rise.

    Things you can do to safely cool off include the following:

  • Sit in a bath of lukewarm water, which will feel cool when you have a fever. (Cold water will actually cause your body to warm up instead of cool down.)
  • give yourself a sponge bath with lukewarm water
  • wear light pajamas or clothing
  • try to avoid using too many extra blankets when you have chills
  • drink plenty of cool or room-temperature water
  • eat popsicles
  • use a fan to keep air circulating
  • Does a wet towel help fever?

    Placing a wet towel on your forehead or on the back of your neck may help to cool you down and reduce symptoms.

    What should you eat with a cold or fever?

    If you have a cold or fever, it can be helpful to eat foods with high water content, such as broths, soups, and fruits and vegetables.

    What worsens a fever?

    Wearing too many layers of clothing, sitting in a warm room, and doing physical activity can all worsen a fever.

    A viral fever is usually nothing to worry about. In both children and adults, most viruses resolve on their own and are part of the healing process.

    Some home remedies can help to speed up the healing process, such as:

  • staying hydrated
  • getting plenty of rest
  • keeping cool
  • However, if you notice unusual symptoms or a fever doesn't go away after a day or so, it's best to speak with a doctor.

    Read this article in Spanish.


    What Is The Normal Body Temperature Range?

    The average "normal" body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), but this can vary depending on age and other factors. Taking your temperature orally, rectally, or in the armpit can also impact your reading.

    A body temperature reading above or below the average doesn't automatically mean you're sick. Several factors can influence your body temperature, including age, sex, time of day, and activity level.

    Read on to learn about healthy body temperature ranges for babies, kids, adults, and older adults.

    Your body's ability to regulate temperature changes as you get older.

    People over the age of 64 generally have more trouble adjusting to sudden changes in temperature as quickly as younger people. In general, older people have more difficulty conserving heat. They're also more likely to have lower body temperatures.

    Below are average body temperatures based on age, according to a review of studies and older research:

    Identifying your normal range can make it easier to know when you have a fever.

    Keep in mind that average body temperature varies from person to person. Your body temperature might be up to 1°F (0.6°C) higher or lower than the guidelines above.

    There are four different ways to take your or a family member's temperature. However, the reading can vary from one method to the next.

    The chart below shows which method is recommended for each age group:

    You may have had your temperature checked under your arm, in the armpit. This method isn't as accurate and not recommended.

    German doctor Carl Wunderlich identified the average body temperature of 98.6°F (37°C) during the 19th century. However, many studies have since determined that that isn't always the case.

    A 2019 study found that the average body temperature is 97.86°F (36.59°C), slightly lower than initially thought many years ago.

    However, it's best to take this information with a grain of salt since no single number defines your average body temperature. Instead, it's best to look at a temperature range that may be higher or lower than the average.

    Here are some of the factors that affect body temperature:

    A higher-than-normal thermometer reading can be a sign of a fever.

    Fever is defined as a temperature of 100.9°F (38.3°C) or higher. As mentioned previously, the exact reading is dependent upon a few factors.

    If your temperature is elevated above the normal range described earlier in the article, you may have a fever. Generally, a reading that's 2°F (1.1°C) above your normal temperature is usually a sign of a fever.

    Fevers can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms, including sweating and chills, headache, and more.

    Our bodies have a built-in temperature control system. This operation raises the body temperature in response to disease and infection, which you can sometimes fight without any intervention.

    With time and rest, your body temperature will likely return to normal without treatment.

    Is 98.6 a regular temperature?

    98.6 °F (37°C) is generally considered a normal temperature, though every person's normal temperature is different and may be slightly lower or higher.

    Is 96.8 an average temp?

    Though 96.8 °F (36°C) might be considered a low temperature, normal temperature is a range. Most people's normal temperature falls between about 97°F (36°C) and 99°F (37°C), but it could be a little higher or lower.

    Is low temperature a kind of fever?

    Temperature that's too low is considered hypothermia. This serious condition occurs when you lose too much body heat. For adults, a body temperature that dips below 95°F (35°C) is a sign of hypothermia.

    Most people associate hypothermia with being outside in cold weather for long periods of time, but it can also occur indoors. Babies and older adults are more susceptible. Hypothermia in babies occurs when their body temperature is 97°F (36.1°C) or lower, and it can also be a sign of severe sepsis in adults.

    The average normal body temperature is commonly accepted to be 98.6°F (37°C), but this can fluctuate based on age and various factors. How you measure your temperature can also affect your reading.

    That said, when you develop a fever, it usually goes away with rest. However, seek treatment if it becomes too high or lasts too long.

    Be mindful of your temperature getting too low as well, as hypothermia can also be life threatening and should be treated immediately.

    If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool here.

    Read this article in Spanish.


    Best Thermometers In 2024: Tested And Rated

    No medicine cabinet is complete without one of the best thermostats. They are a must-have device in our homes and essential for young families, as babies and young children cannot always tell how they feel. However, whether you have children or not, thermostats are especially important for checking for bugs and viruses, as they will accurately measure whether your temperature is raised and if there is any need for medical intervention. 

    One of the best thermostats will reach a reading quickly and consistently, which is especially important if you have young children who don't like their temperature taken. This is one reason why the iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3 came out on top. It delivered a reading quickly, was quiet to use (great if you're taking a child's temperature while sleeping) and came in at a good price. 

    If you're looking for a smart thermometer, the Kinsa Quickcare pairs with the Kinsa mobile app, making recording temperatures and symptoms easy. It's especially handy if you need to share information with doctors. However, if you don't want this functionality, you may prefer a basic thermometer like the Vicks ComfortFlex. 

    From personal experience, and as a mum of two, I've always relied on an in-ear thermometer, as the readings are quick, easy to take and reliable. We feature two within this review, including the iProven DMT-489 and Braun's ThermoScan 7. However, if you want extra features, you may decide on a smart thermometer, such as the Kinsa Quickcare, which connects to an app and offers additional bells and whistles. 

    To help you decide which thermostat is right for your needs and budget, we've tested a range of thermostats that deliver across the board. Here, you'll find details about accuracy, speed and ease of use, consistency, design, display and memory features, plus any special functions. 

    The quick list

    iHealth no-Touch Forehead ThermometerBest overall

    1. IHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3

    This no-touch thermometer is the best we tested and delivers results quickly for babies, infants and adults, by simply placing the thermometer on a forehead. 

    Read more below

    Femometer digital thermometerBest budget

    2. Femometer Digital Thermometer (DMT 2032)

    The Femometer digital thermometer is a great budget purchase, plus it's compact and easy to use, although you may be waiting a while for the reading.

    Read more below

    Kinsa quickcare digital thermometerBest for families

    3. Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer

    This smart thermometer allows you to record multiple patients' recordings over time and can be used with an app, if desired. It makes it a good choice for families.

    Read more below

    The best thermometers you can buy Best overall

    iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3

    (Image credit: Future)

    1. IHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3

    Best thermometer overall

    Specifications

    Location: Forehead

    Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.3 x 5.4 inches

    Battery: 2 AAA

    Water resistant: No

    Lit display: LED display

    Silent mode: Yes

    Fever alert: No

    Memory: Yes

    Displays in Fahrenheit or Celsius: Both

    Reasons to buy +

    Results within one second

    +

    No-touch design

    +

    Displays in both Fahrenheit and Celsius

    +

    Intuitive to use

    Reasons to avoid -

    Bulkier than other thermometers

    After extensive testing, the iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3 is our top choice for a no-touch thermometer — it delivers results within a second with an easy-to-read display. This thermometer uses infrared sensors to measure the temperature of the forehead, and it can be used on babies, children, and adults. Just scan the center of someone's forehead to get a temperature reading, cued by a vibration. 

    This thermometer is intuitive to use — we didn't have to rely heavily on the instruction manual. It's the fastest by far, and it's the one we'd choose if we needed to quickly take a temperature and report it. This thermometer would be a great choice for restaurants, business owners, and anyone who needs to quickly scan multiple people (just use an alcohol swab to clean it between uses). Because of its sound-free design with no bright lights, it's also the best option if you want to take a child's temperature while they're sleeping. One con is that the thermometer only recalls the last reading, so you'd need to come up with your own system for tracking temperatures over time. Still, this is the best thermometer for its price point, ease of use, and no-touch design.

    Best value (Image credit: Future)

    2. Femometer Digital Thermometer (DMT 2032)

    Best value thermometer

    Specifications

    Location: Oral/axillary/rectal

    Dimensions: 5.9 x 2.1 x 0.8 inches

    Battery: CR1632

    Water resistant: Yes

    Lit display: LCD display

    Silent mode: No

    Fever alert: No

    Memory: Recalls last reading

    Displays in Fahrenheit or Celsius: Both

    Reasons to buy +

    Affordable price point

    +

    Small and compact

    Reasons to avoid -

    Slow readings

    -

    No backlight

    The Femometer Digital Thermometer is easy enough to use, and it's hard to beat at this price point. Simply press the power switch, place it under your tongue, wait for a beep, and your temperature is ready. The thermometer will display "Lo" if the temperature is lower than 89.6° and "Hi" if the temperature is above 107.6°, which leaves a pretty large range for a healthy temperature. This thermometer also has a waterproof tip, making it easy to clean and reuse, and a plastic cover for storage. You can also easily convert from Fahrenheit to Celsius as needed.

    The biggest con of the Femometer thermometer is how long it takes to get a reading, especially when compared to other contenders. Our average temperature reading took 57 seconds, which isn't ideal for use on someone who may not want to keep still. Its LCD screen display is clear enough to read, but there's no backlight, making it harder to take temperatures in low light.

    Overall, this thermometer is great value for money, compact, and easy to use, making it our second pick for the best thermometers.

    Best for families

    Kinsa Quickcare Smart Thermometer

    (Image credit: Future)

    3. Kinsa QuickCare Smart Digital Thermometer

    Best family thermometer

    Specifications

    Location: Oral/Axillary/Rectal

    Dimensions: 5.7 x 3 x 1 inches

    Battery: CR2032

    Water resistance: Yes

    Lit display: Yes

    Silent Mode: No

    Fever alert: Yes

    Memory: Yes

    Displays in Fahrenheit or Celsius: Both

    Reasons to buy +

    Smart connectivity with mobile app

    +

    Keeps track of multiple users

    +

    Animation to calm children

    Reasons to avoid -

    Probe cover sold separately

    If you're looking for a thermometer that can track multiple patients at a time, this is the one for you. The Kinda Quickcare is a Smart digital thermometer takes an average of 8 seconds to take a reading as claimed, which is a little slower than the iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer, and it can be used  in the rectum (rectal), mouth (oral) or armpit (axillary). It's pretty clever as well — if you take the thermometer out of your mouth too early, the app will tell you to try again.

    The Kinsa Quickcare thermometer also pairs with the free Kinsa mobile app that's available in the App Store or Google Play, though the app is not required to use the thermometer. We found it very easy to set up on an iPhone, as well as take a temperature, and add any symptoms we may have been feeling. You can add multiple users on the app, and it will create a timeline of all your past temperature readings, and symptoms that can be shared with caregivers or doctors as needed.

    And for children that don't like having their temperature taken, the app features an 'Ellie the Elephant' animation to keep them still, ensuring an accurate reading.

    Overall, this thermometer is a great choice for anyone who needs to keep track of temperature over time. While some users admitted that they didn't feel comfortable sharing their health data with the company, Kinsa does state that the personally identifiable information of users is not used without their permission. This is a great digital thermometer for us because we appreciate the technology and ease of tracking, but not everyone needs those bells and whistles.

    Best basic

    Vicks Comfortflex

    (Image credit: Future)

    4. Vicks ComfortFlex

    Best basic thermometer

    Specifications

    Location: Oral/Axillary/Rectal

    Dimensions: 3.1 x 1.2 x 7.5 inches

    Battery: CR1632

    Water resistance: Yes

    Lit display: Yes

    Silent mode: No

    Fever alert: Yes

    Memory: Yes

    Displays in Fahrenheit or Celsius: Both

    Reasons to buy +

    Light and compact

    +

    Large display with backlight

    +

    Rubber-coated probe for greater comfort

    +

    FeverInsight feature shows color-coded results 

    Reasons to avoid -

    Replacement batteries are reportedly hard to find 

    When first using the Vicks Comfortflex, it opens with a self-assessment, similar to taring a scale, and afterwards displays the last temperature reading for two seconds — useful if you want a reference for your progress. The design is compact and reliable, and the probe's rubber coating makes it more comfortable to use than some of the others on our list. Although it claims to provide results in "as fast as 8 seconds," it took an average of 15 seconds when we tested it. Still, it was easy to follow the directions, and the vibration cue let us know that the temperature reading was available. 

    The display is color-coded based on the results (green for no fever, yellow for elevated, and red for high fever), which makes it easy to interpret the results at a glance. You can also recall the last reading using the memory feature and switch from Farenheit to Celsius, which is easy enough once you read the manual. However, other users noted that it was hard to find a battery replacement for this thermometer, which requires a CR1632 3V lithium battery. It may be worth ordering a back-up battery in advance so you can change it out when needed.

    Overall, this thermometer is easy to use and great for anyone on the go, which is why it's one of the best thermometers.

    Best multi

    iProven Thermometer DMT-489

    (Image credit: Future)

    5. IProven DMT-489

    Best forehead and in-ear thermometer

    Specifications

    Location: Forehead/Ear

    Dimensions: 1.77 x 1.73 x 6.1 inches

    Battery: 2 AAA

    Water resistance: No

    Lit display: Yes

    Silent mode: No

    Fever alert: Yes

    Memory: Yes

    Displays in Fahrenheit or Celsius: Both

    Reasons to buy +

    Color temperature indication

    +

    Saves 20 readings

    +

    Fever warning

    Reasons to avoid -

    Inconsistent performance in-ear

    The iProven thermometer can scan the forehead from temple to temple, and it can also take your temperature via the ear using the ear probe with a removable cap. It uses infrared technology to measure radiation from the eardrum or forehead and provides a reading within two seconds. Although it's not completely contactless like the iHealth thermometer, it still takes readings quickly, which makes it a good choice for babies and children. 

    The forehead temperature readings were consistent and displayed within a few seconds, however we struggled to get readings with the ear probe at times and had to keep moving it around until it worked. This isn't necessarily a bad thing since we only got a reading when it was placed properly, but we would have liked more guidance on how to orient it correctly for accurate readings. If the temperature is high, the iProven thermometer beeps three times and flashes a red warning light. Otherwise, it has a green display for a normal temperature. Overall, this is a simple-to-use ear and forehead thermometer that's worth its price, which is why it's one of the best thermometers. 

    Best for infants

    Braun ThermoScan 7

    (Image credit: Future)

    6. Braun ThermoScan 7

    Best thermometer for young kids

    Specifications

    Location: Ear

    Dimensions: 5.7 x 1.3 x 2.1 inches

    Battery: 2 AA

    Water resistance: Yes

    Lit display: Yes

    Silent mode: No

    Fever alert: Yes

    Memory: Yes

    Displays in Fahrenheit or Celsius: Both

    Reasons to buy +

    Color-coded display with backlight 

    +

    Stores last 9 temperature readings 

    +

    Age-appropriate fever guidance 

    Reasons to avoid -

    Only takes temperature via ear 

    -

    Disposable Thermoscan lens filters can be expensive to replace 

    The Braun ThermoScan 7 uses infrared technology to quickly take your temperature via the ear, measuring the heat generated by the eardrum and surrounding tissue. It comes with disposable lens filters which should be changed with every use; bear in mind this can quickly mount up the price. It also stores the last nine temperature readings (useful if you're tracking your temperature over a period of time), which can be accessed by pressing the "Mem" button. The Age Precision feature provides a color-coded reading based on different levels of fever by the selected age group (0-3 months, 3-36 months or 36 months+).

    Overall, this thermometer is easy to use — all we had to do was add a lens filter, select the appropriate age range, and scan our ear. The lens filters make it easy to use the same thermometer on the whole family, but we would prefer to use alcohol to clean the probe between uses instead to lower costs and waste. The color display (green, yellow, or red) quickly gave us a sense of whether our temperature was normal or high.

    Expect to pay more for this thermometer, both upfront and in terms of replacing the filters, however for that you will get one of the best thermometers, which offers specific guidance for young age ranges. 

    How we tested the best thermometers

    To test each thermometer, we started off by reading through the manual to learn the ins and outs of the design, including how to take temperature, change the reading from Fahrenheit to Celsius, and details on how the readings will be displayed. From here, we took three temperature readings and compared the speed and consistency, assessing the memory recall feature if there was one.

    We considered the display, checking for a backlight so the temperature could be easily seen at night or in a dimly lit room. We factored in visual cues as well, such as indicators for a low versus high temperature reading with a color display or warning sound. We timed how long it took to reach the temperature reading, keeping in mind that a fussy child may struggle to hold their breath for a significant period of time if someone took their temperature orally.

    These thermometers vary in the location from which they can take temperature, from the ear or forehead (or both) to the mouth, armpit, or rectum. For the latter category, we considered the comfort of the probe. We considered the inclusion of additional nice-to-have features as well like a companion app, age-specific guidance, or the inclusion of lens filters. Lastly, we considered how many readings could be stored, which may be more beneficial if you're monitoring symptoms over time. However, only the Kinsa thermometer offered a timeline to track the temperatures of multiple people, which is ideal if you live in a large household.

    Swipe to scroll horizontally

    Specifications compared Row 0 - Cell 0 Location Dimensions (inches) Battery Water resistant Lit display Silent mode Fever alert Memory Displays in Fahrenheit/Celsius iHealth No-Touch Forehead Thermometer PT3 Forehead 1.5 x 1.3 x 5.4 2x AAA No LED Yes No Yes Yes/Yes Femometer Digital Thermometer (DMT 2032) Oral/axillary/rectal 5.9 x 2.1 x 0.8 CR1632 Yes LCD No No Recalls last reading Yes/Yes Kinsa QuickCare Oral/axillary/rectal 5.7 x 3 x 1 CR2032 Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes/Yes Vicks ComfortFlex Oral/axillary/rectal 3.1 x 1.2 x 7.5 CR1632 Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes/Yes iProven DMT-489 Forehead/ear 1.8 x 1.7 x 6.1 2x AAA No Yes No Yes Yes Yes/Yes Braun ThermoScan 7 Ear 5.7 x 1.3 x 2.1 2x AA Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes/Yes Digital vs infrared

    There are two main categories of thermometer: digital-stick and infrared. (The old glass models containing poisonous mercury have been phased out, but you can still find a few containing dyed-red alcohol.)

    A digital-stick thermometer is probably what's been stashed in the back of your medicine cabinet for the last decade. It makes physical contact with the body and can take temperatures from the mouth (oral), the armpit (axillary) or the bottom (rectal). 

    Digital-stick thermometers are slower to give a temperature reading than their infrared counterparts and have fewer features, but they're accurate, affordable and work for all ages.

    Infrared thermometers measure the heat your body emits, generally via the forehead or ear, by reading infrared light. These give results almost instantaneously and are more comfortable for young kids, though not recommended for newborns. (Readings from a rectal thermometer are more reliable, and with babies, reliable readings are key.) 

    Infrared thermometers tend to have more features than digital-stick models, which means they're usually also pricier. Some are specifically designed to read forehead temperatures, others are designed for ear readings, and some can handle both.

    How to choose the best thermometer for you

    When you're looking for the best thermometer for your home, consider whose temperature you'll be taking, as well as which features — fever alerts and app integrations, for example — could make dealing with a sick kid or partner a little bit easier. 

    Your first step to choosing the best thermometer is to determine which method you prefer for taking temperatures. If you have a newborn — or if you're looking for an inexpensive option for the adults in your home — a digital stick thermometer that can be used for oral, rectal or axillary readings should do the trick. 

    If you have toddlers or children who are averse to holding their breath, a forehead, ear or dual-mode device is likely a better fit. 

    The thermometers which feature in our list fall into three main categories:

    Oral thermometer: This list includes a few digital thermometers, which can take temperature orally, rectally, or by armpit. Some thermometers also have a companion mobile app to track temperature over time.

    Ear thermometer: Tympanic thermometers are inserted into the ear canal, making it easy to get fast and accurate readings. The one drawback is that they aren't recommended for use in infants under 6 months old and need to be positioned properly for accurate results.

    Forehead thermometer: Forehead thermometers use infrared sensors to take the temperature from your forehead. We tested designs that were contactless as well as some which need to be swiped across the forehead.

    Here are a few additional factors to weigh when determining which thermometer is right for your family.  

    The best thermometers lined up together during testing

    (Image credit: Future)
  • Display options: Look for thermometers that have large, easy-to-read digital displays. A backlight is helpful if you'll be taking temperatures at night in dark bedrooms.  
  • Fever alerts: Many of the devices we reviewed have color-coded (usually red, yellow or green) displays to indicate that you have a fever or your child does. This helps you quickly identify elevated temperatures.  
  • Silent mode: A few devices let you silence beeps and alerts, which is helpful if you're dealing with sick, cranky or sleeping kids who may be bothered by unnecessary noise.  
  • Memory storage: Most thermometers retain at least one recent reading — a helpful option if you want to track a fever over time.  
  • Age-specific settings or smart features: These are more nice-to-haves than necessities, but app syncing and custom fever alerts by age add some ease to your temperature-taking process. 
  • How much should you spend on a thermometer?

    Entry-level thermometers start from just $6, but the price can range up to $60 or more for premium designs. Generally speaking, the more features you get, the more you will have to spend. The cheapest designs mostly consist of oral thermometers which offer an immediate reading and little else. Whereas premium offerings have greater functionality — some can take the temperature from the ear, or even from the forehead without touching the patient. These can come with all sorts of useful features, such as smart connectivity, so you can connect the thermometer to your phone to record and track your results. Others can save multiple readings, and warn you once a fever has been reached.

    While all of these added features are useful, they're not always necessary. And, as our list shows, you don't need to spend top dollar to get one of the best thermometers. Consider your budget and what you want from your thermometer before you start shopping. That way, you wont overspend and will only get what you will likely use. 

    Which thermometer is best for kids?

    If you're shopping for a thermometer to suit kids, there are several factors to consider. First, you need a design which is responsive — if you're dealing with a young, unwell child, they're unlikely to hold still for long, so the readings need to be quick and accurate. You also want a thermometer which is comfortable for the child to use. Some may not like their temperature being taken via the ear or the mouth. To avoid contact completely, you could invest in a no-touch forehead thermometer, although these will likely cost you more. 

    A thermometer which you can mute may also be ideal, particularly if the child is trying to sleep while you take their temperature. Lastly, the temperature level upon reaching a fever will vary by age, and some thermometers can actually be adjusted to take account of this. This is why the Braun ThemoScan 7 was ranked as the best thermometer for kids in our tests. It offers three age settings, from 0-3 months, 3-36 months and 36 months +, so it can warn you when a fever is reached at a younger age via its red, amber and green backlight. While it is an in-ear thermometer, we like that it comes with a pre-warmed tip to limit discomfort.      

    Which thermometer is best for adults?

    Buying a thermometer for adult use isn't as complex as buying one for a child, as you won't need to factor in as many scenarios. While a child may dislike having their temperature taken or a reading needs to be taken while sleeping, this is unlikely to be the case for an adult. Therefore, you have a much wider choice available.

    However, if you are buying an all-around thermometer for family use, investing in a thermometer most suitable for a child is the sensible option. Otherwise, it comes down to personal preference and how you find it easiest to have your temperature taken. If you dislike having an oral thermometer placed under your tongue, where it needs to be kept in place for an accurate reading, you may prefer to opt for a digital ear thermometer. 






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