A viral TikTok video questioning whether 98.6°F is still the normal body temperature has reignited scientific discussion. Research suggests the average temperature has dropped to around 97.9°F, likely due to improved healthcare and lower chronic inflammation compared to the 19th century, when the original standard was set.
Factors like age, sex, and time of day influence body temperature, making fever thresholds less universal. Experts emphasize monitoring overall symptoms rather than relying solely on temperature to determine illness. A fever above 100°F is generally concerning, but not everyone exhibits high temperatures when sick.
With flu and COVID-19 cases surging, experts advise staying home when ill, practicing good hygiene, and following public health guidelines to reduce infection risks.
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