A fever is a body temperature reading of 38oC (100.4oF) or higher, when checked using an oral thermometer placed under the tongue. 

It is normal for our body temperature to fall between 36.3o C to 37.6o C (97.4O F to 99.6o F). Before taking an oral temperature reading, make sure that you have not consumed anything hot or cold, or smoked, as these factors can result in a false high or false low readings. It is also important to consider whether you have taken any medication that can lower measured temperature. 

While less accurate than a measured temperature, other signs of a fever include feeling warm to the touch, appearing flushed or glassy-eyed, and having chills.

For more information, see HealthlinkBC’s page on Fever or Chills, Age 12 and Older.