High temperature (fever) in adults
What is a high temperature?
Normal body temperature is different for everyone and changes during the day.
A high temperature is usually considered to be 38C or above. This is sometimes called a fever.
Many things can cause a high temperature, but it's usually caused by your body fighting an infection.
Check if you have a high temperature
You may have a high temperature if:
- your chest or back feel hotter than usual
- you have other symptoms, such as shivering (chills), sweating or warm, red skin
- a thermometer says your temperature is 38C or above
Do I need to take my temperature?
You do not need to take your temperature using a thermometer, but you can if you have one.
Make sure you use it correctly to help get an accurate result. See how to take a temperature.
Important
If you feel hot or shivery, you may have a high temperature even if a thermometer says your temperature is below 38C.
What to do if you have a high temperature
If you have a high temperature, it could be coronavirus.
To protect others, do not go to places like a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Stay at home.
Use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do.
Only call 111 if you cannot get help online.
Advice for children
This page is for adults. For advice about children, see fever in children.