COVID-19 SPECIAL: Why You Should Be Monitoring Your Body Temperature

High temperature is an indicator that you might be falling ill and It is also one of the more common symptoms of COVID-19. That’s why it is important for you to be monitoring your temperature, especially if you are a front-line worker or live with someone that has a higher risk of exposure.

If you are monitoring your temperature, be sure to check it twice a day every day, and always around the same time each of the times. It’s important to be consistent because your temperature fluctuates hour by hour.

The average body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit but varies from 97.7 to 99.5 degrees. If during self- monitoring you notice your body temperature consistently going over 100 degrees, be aware of other symptoms of Coronavirus, and call your doctor for further instructions.

Other symptoms confirmed by the CDC and WHO include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Chills
• Muscle pain
• Sore throat
• New loss of taste or smell

Source: CDC and WHO