In this time of Covid-19, it has become common practice to expect someone to take our temperature when we enter an office or store. The idea is that someone who has a fever may likely be infected with the virus even if they have no other symptoms. If so, better to stay away and reschedule the appointment.
Many of us grew up with the idea that the normal body temperature is 98.6°F degrees. But this is based on a study from the late 1800s and is likely no longer valid. Every time I enter the office these days, I take my temperature, as does our staff. It always seems to be in the 97°F range, not the 98.6°F that we learned. Does that mean that there is something wrong? Not at all.
It seems that a temperature in the 97°F point range may be the new normal. Body temperature varies based on the time of day, the time of the month, and your age. Our temperature is usually lower in the morning, higher in the evening. It also generally becomes lower as we grow older. Of course, it is elevated if we have just exercised. Also, where the temperature is taken makes a difference. Temperature is typically taken on the forehead during this pandemic because it is quick and easy and involves no contact. The forehead is probably the lowest temperature-wise of the usual sites, such as orally or on the ear, which are generally slightly higher.
So, body temperatures in the high 96°F or 97°F range may be perfectly normal for you. Conversely, based on this information, it is conceivable that 98.6°F might even be indicative of a slight fever if your normal is around 97.5°F. Also, understand that elevated temperature is not always a bad thing. It is one of the ways that our body responds to infections from foreign invaders of all kinds. A higher temperature helps our body fight off these bacteria and viruses. It helps our immune cells, like white blood cells, kill foreign invaders. So, reducing fever with medication may make us feel better, but it actually works against our body's efforts to protect us.
Hopefully, we are all wearing masks (and will be for a while). Remember, ask not what your mask can do for you, ask what your mask can do for your country!