OtterKnow Kids EncyclopediaA fever is when your body’s temperature goes higher than normal! Your body does this on purpose because many germs have a hard time surviving when things heat up. It is like your body turning up the heat to help chase the germs away.
A grownup can check your temperature with a thermometer to see if you have a fever. When you have a fever, you might feel hot, tired, or achy. Sometimes you might feel cold and shivery even though your body is actually warm!
The best things you can do are rest in a comfy spot and drink plenty of water or juice. A grownup may give you medicine to help you feel more comfortable. If your fever is very high or lasts a long time, a grownup should call your doctor to make sure everything is okay!
- Your normal body temperature is about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit!
- A fever is actually your body’s way of fighting germs — it is a sign that your immune system is doing its job.
- The first thermometer for measuring body temperature was invented over 300 years ago!
