What temperature is considered a fever in adults. How does fever differ from hyperthermia. When should you seek medical attention for a high temperature. What are the best ways to measure body temperature accurately.

Defining Fever: What Temperature Constitutes a Fever in Adults?

A fever is generally defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38.3°C). However, normal body temperature can vary by individual and fluctuate throughout the day. The average oral temperature for a healthy adult at rest is about 98.6°F (37°C), but this can range from 97°F to 99°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C) and still be considered normal.

Age can impact what’s considered a normal temperature:

• Adults over 70 may have a lower baseline temperature around 96.8°F (36°C)
• Time of day, activity level, environment, hydration status, and medications can cause 1-2 degree fluctuations

Temperature Ranges and Their Meanings

Understanding different temperature ranges can help determine the severity of a fever:

• Normal: 97.7°F (36.5°C) to 99°F (37.2°C)
• Low-grade fever: 99°F (37.2°C) to 100.4°F (38°C)
• Fever: 100.4°F (38°C) to 105.8°F (41°C)
• Hyperpyrexia: 105.8°F (41°C) to 109.4°F (43°C)
• Temperatures above 109.4°F (43°C) are usually fatal

The Purpose of Fever: Why Does Our Body Temperature Rise?

Fever serves as a defense mechanism against infections and inflammation. The hypothalamus, a brain structure that regulates body temperature, raises the internal thermostat to combat illnesses. This elevated temperature can help the immune system fight off invading pathogens more effectively.

Common causes of fever include:

• Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
• Inflammatory conditions
• Autoimmune diseases
• Certain medications
• Malignancies

It’s important to remember that fever itself is a symptom, not a disease. While uncomfortable, temperatures up to 102°F are generally safe for healthy adults and can be tolerated for short periods without significant problems.

Fever vs. Hyperthermia: Understanding the Crucial Difference

While often confused, fever and hyperthermia are distinct conditions with different underlying causes and potential risks.

What is Hyperthermia?

Hyperthermia is defined as a sustained body temperature above 104°F (40°C). Unlike fever, where the body intentionally raises its temperature, hyperthermia occurs when the body cannot effectively remove excess heat. The hypothalamus functions normally, but environmental factors or other issues prevent proper cooling.

Common causes of hyperthermia include:

• Extreme heat exposure
• Strenuous exercise in hot conditions
• Insufficient hydration
• Certain medications
• Medical conditions affecting thermoregulation

Hyperthermia can be dangerous and may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke if not addressed promptly.

Measuring Body Temperature: Accurate Methods for Adults and Children

Proper temperature measurement is crucial for assessing fever and making informed healthcare decisions. Different methods are appropriate for various age groups and situations.

Temperature Measurement in Adults

For adults, the most reliable methods include:

1. Oral digital thermometer: Place the tip under the tongue for the most accurate reading.
2. Forehead (temporal artery) thermometer: Provides fairly accurate results and is less invasive.
3. Ear (tympanic) thermometer: Readings can vary and may be inaccurate if there’s an ear infection.

Armpit (axillary) measurements are less precise but can provide a quick estimate. When using this method, add one degree to the reading for a more accurate core body temperature.

Temperature Measurement in Children

Age-appropriate methods for children include:

• Rectal thermometer: Most accurate for infants under 3 months (crucial for detecting potentially life-threatening infections)
• Oral digital thermometer: Suitable for children 4 years and older
• Tympanic or forehead thermometer: Can be used for children over 6 months, but readings may vary

Types of Thermometers

Modern digital thermometers have largely replaced mercury thermometers due to safety concerns. When using any thermometer, wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after use.

Recognizing Fever Symptoms: Beyond the Numbers

While elevated temperature is the primary indicator of fever, other symptoms often accompany this condition. Being aware of these signs can help you assess the severity of the fever and determine if medical attention is necessary.

Common symptoms associated with fever include:

• Muscle aches and general body pain
• Headaches, ranging from mild to severe
• Irritability and mood changes
• Chills and shivering
• Loss of appetite
• Sweating, especially as the fever breaks
• Generalized weakness and fatigue

The presence and intensity of these symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause of the fever and individual factors. Some people may experience only a few mild symptoms, while others might have more severe manifestations.

Treating Fever in Adults: Home Remedies and When to Seek Help

Most fevers in adults can be managed at home with simple remedies and over-the-counter medications. However, it’s crucial to know when professional medical attention is necessary.

Home Treatment for Fever

To help alleviate fever symptoms and promote recovery:

• Rest and avoid overexertion
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
• Dress in light, breathable clothing
• Use a light blanket if you have chills
• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve discomfort
• Apply a cool, damp cloth to the forehead or take a lukewarm bath

When to Call Your Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) that doesn’t respond to medication
• Fever lasting more than three days
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain
• Unusual skin rash
• Signs of dehydration (dark urine, decreased urination, dry mouth)

If you have a weakened immune system or chronic medical conditions, consult your healthcare provider even for milder fevers, as you may be at higher risk for complications.

Special Considerations: Fever in Newborns and Young Children

Fever in infants and young children requires special attention and often warrants more immediate medical evaluation. The threshold for concern is lower in these age groups due to their developing immune systems and increased vulnerability to certain infections.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

For infants and young children, contact a healthcare provider immediately if:

• A baby under 3 months has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• A child between 3-6 months has a temperature above 102°F (38.9°C)
• A child of any age has a fever accompanied by:
  • Difficulty waking or extreme listlessness
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck
  • Unexplained rash
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Abdominal pain
  • Repeated vomiting or diarrhea

Treating Fever in Children

When caring for a child with fever:

1. Ensure proper hydration with frequent small sips of water or electrolyte solutions
2. Dress the child in light clothing
3. Keep the room temperature comfortable, not too hot or cold
4. Offer age-appropriate fever-reducing medications (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) as directed by a healthcare provider
5. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome
6. Monitor the child’s behavior and overall condition closely

Understanding Hyperthermia Treatment: Cooling Methods and Medical Interventions

While fever is often manageable at home, hyperthermia requires prompt attention and may necessitate emergency medical care. The primary goal in treating hyperthermia is to cool the body quickly and safely.

Immediate Actions for Suspected Hyperthermia

If you suspect someone is experiencing hyperthermia:

1. Move the person to a cool, shaded area or air-conditioned space
2. Remove excess clothing
3. Apply cool water to the skin through misting, sponging, or wrapping in damp sheets
4. Use fans to increase air circulation and evaporation
5. Provide cool (not ice-cold) fluids if the person is conscious and able to drink
6. Apply ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin areas

Professional Medical Treatment

In severe cases of hyperthermia, especially if heat stroke is suspected, emergency medical services should be contacted immediately. Professional treatment may include:

• Intravenous fluid administration
• Cooling blankets or ice baths
• Medication to treat seizures or other complications
• Continuous monitoring of core body temperature and vital signs

Prompt recognition and treatment of hyperthermia are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications such as organ damage or failure.

Preventing Fever and Hyperthermia: Practical Tips for Maintaining Normal Body Temperature

While not all fevers can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing a fever or experiencing hyperthermia. These preventive measures focus on maintaining good health and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures.

Preventing Fever

To reduce your chances of developing a fever:

• Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations
• Avoid close contact with people who are ill
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep
• Manage chronic health conditions effectively

Preventing Hyperthermia

To protect yourself from hyperthermia, especially during hot weather:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, even before you feel thirsty
• Wear light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing
• Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day
• Use air conditioning or fans to keep your environment cool
• Take frequent breaks and seek shade when outdoors
• Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles
• Be aware of medications that may affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature

By understanding the causes and symptoms of fever and hyperthermia, knowing how to accurately measure body temperature, and recognizing when to seek medical attention, you can effectively manage these conditions and maintain your health. Remember that while a mild fever is often a sign that your body is fighting an infection, persistent or high fevers should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper treatment and prevent complications.

100, 101 or 102 Degree Fever? Adult Guide to High Temperatures

A fever is defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38.3°C).  The normal oral temperature for a resting, healthy adult is about 98.6°F (37°C). However, what is considered a “normal” body temperature can vary by one degree based on age, race, and other factors.  For example,  an individual who is over 70 years old may have a lower normal temp at 96.8°F (36°C). Furthermore, a person’s temperature may increase or decrease by 1 to 2 degrees throughout the day depending on time of day, activity level, the environment (hot or cold), hydration status, or even medications that he/she may be taking.

In general, a fever indicates the presence of inflammation.  It may occur in the presence of an underlying illness such as an infection, malignancy, or even bodily injury.  It may also be associated with certain autoimmune diseases.  Less commonly, certain medications are associated with fevers.  A fever itself, however, is merely a symptom, and not a disease.

A brain structure called the hypothalamus sets body temperature, and produces a fever response.  It can raise the body’s internal thermostat to combat illnesses.  In this way, the hypothalamus responds to an infection or inflammation by helping the immune system to defeat the offending agent.  Although it may not be comfortable, a temperature of up to 102°F is generally safe in adults. In fact, most healthy adults can even tolerate a fever as high as 103°F to 104°F for short periods of time without having any significant problems.  The body temperature usually returns to normal once the illness resolves.  Click here for a list of fever symptoms in adults.

Page Contents

What is the difference Between Fever and Hyperthermia?Ranges in Body TemperaturesSymptoms of FeverHow to Take Your Temperature – Fever in AdultsHow to Take Your Temperature – Fever in ChildrenHow to Take Your Temperature – ThermometersMercury ThermometerDigital ThermometersFever in adults – How to Treat a FeverWhen to Call Your DoctorTreatment of Hyperthermia Fever in Newborns and Children

What is the difference Between Fever and Hyperthermia?

The terms fever and hyperthermia are commonly confused, and are completely different entities. Hyperthermia is defined as a sustained body temperature above 104°F (40°C), and is just another word for overheating.   The hypothalamus functions normally, but the body’s ability to get rid of heat is impaired.  This most commonly occurs during exposure to extreme heat such as when exercising in hot outdoor temperatures.   Insufficient hydration can also increase the risk of hyperthermia.  

Ranges in Body Temperatures

While there are numerous definitions of fever or pyrexia, the CDC defines a fever as a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). However, it is important to keep in mind that, in the elderly, temperatures below 100.4 may also be indicative of a fever.  The hypothalamus of these individuals is less able to elevate their body temperatures.  It is, therefore, important to take note of any additional concerning symptoms.

Here are some other definitions related to body temperature: 

• Normal: temperatures between 97.7°F (36.5°C) and 99°F (37. 2°C)
• Low-grade fever: temperatures between 99°F (37.2°C) and 100.4°F (38°C)
• Fever (pyrexia): temperatures between 100.4°F (38°C) and 105.8°F (41°C)
• Hyperpyrexia: temperatures between 105.8°F (41°C) and 109.4°F (43°C)
• Temperatures above 109.4°F (43°C) are usually fatal

Symptoms of Fever

Fevers can cause a wide variety symptoms. The most common ones are listed below:

1. 1. Muscle aches
   2. Headaches
   3. Irritability
   4. Chills
   5. Loss of appetite
   6. Sweating
   7. Generalized weakness

Click here for a list of fever symptoms in adults.

How to Take Your Temperature – Fever in Adults

Adults should use a digital thermometer, placing the tip under the tongue.  Forehead (temporal artery) measurements are also fairly accurate.  Readings taken with an ear (tympanic membrane) thermometer can vary, and may be inaccurate if there is an ear infection.  When readings from both ears are compared, the numbers may differ.

Taking a temperature under the armpit is not very accurate, but can be a quick way to take one’s temperature. When doing so, add one degree to know the true core body temperature.

How to Take Your Temperature – Fever in Children

When taking a child’s temperature, the digital thermometer tip should be placed under the tongue if age four or older. Tympanic membrane and forehead models may be used over the age of six months, but expect some variation in readings when using ear thermometers. 

In infants, the most accurate way to take a temperature is rectally.  A fever in infants under age three months can be a sign of a life threatening infection, so taking the temperature correctly is crucial.   

How to Take Your Temperature – Thermometers

Wash your hands with soap and warm water prior to using any thermometer. 

Mercury Thermometer

Because digital thermometers have become very affordable, the use of old glass mercury thermometers should be avoided.

Mercury is poisonous and is released when a glass thermometer breaks.  Furthermore, because it takes some skill to get a proper temperature reading, so they are not as accurate as the latest digital thermometers.

What to Do if a Mercury Thermometer Breaks.

Digital Thermometers

Digital thermometers are affordable, and readily available nowadays.  Because of the digital number displays, they are easy to read.  Click here for thermometer recommendations.

Before each use, make sure that the thermometer is clean and turned on. Again, wash your hands with soap and warm water to prevent the spread of infection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding appropriate usage for an accurate temperature reading, and always clean the thermometer before putting it away.

Fever in adults – How to Treat a Fever

• Stay hydrated.  In response to a fever, the body sweats in an effort to cool off.  Since sweat contains water, it must be replaced.  Water is the best option for rehydration in most cases.  If there are fluid losses due to vomiting or diarrhea, electrolyte replacement beverages may be ideal.
• Regularly take and record your temperatures.  If taking medication to lower the fever, it should drop within an hour.
• Monitor associated symptoms.  Take your temperature more frequently if your symptoms change (e.g. if you start vomiting)
• Antipyretics.  For fevers that are uncomfortable (e.g. associated muscle aches, headaches) you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These medications help to reset your body’s thermostat, and lower the temperature.
• Do not give aspirin or products that contain it to children or teens under the age of 20. This can potentially cause Reye syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition
• Watch for signs of dehydration.  This can occur if the fever causes you to sweat excessively, or is associated with vomiting or diarrhea.  Signs of dehydration include thirst, dry skin, dry mouth, chills, feeling tired or weak, and dark-colored urine.
• Other fever remedies for adults.

When to Call Your Doctor

• Fevers above 103°F 
• Persistent fever.  Many viral illnesses, especially the flu, cause fevers of 102°F or higher for three to four days.  If associated with such illnesses, it is worth seeing a doctor for any fever that lasts longer.  For fevers that develop with no other symptoms, one should see a doctor if it lasts more than 48 hours.
• If your fever is associated with: 
  • Shortness of breath, chest pain 
  • Severe cough 
  • Seizures 
  • Confusion 
  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea 
  • Severe headache 
  • Skin rash
  • Sensitivity to bright light and/or neck stiffness (could indicate meningitis – an infection of the lining of the brain, spinal cord)
  • Severe abdominal pain (could indicate diverticulitis, appendicitis, or other abdominal disorder)
  • Pain with urination (could indicate a urinary tract infection)

Treatment of Hyperthermia 

Hyperthermia is different from just a fever.   It is more dangerous.  The body becomes overheated and loses its ability to thermoregulate.  If measures are not taken to cool down the body, it can lead to organ damage and death.  When the body’s temperature rises above 104°F and is associated with other symptoms, it is called heatstroke.  This is a medical emergency and should be treated as such. Call 911. Symptoms may include:

• Confusion 
• Vomiting 
• Slurred speech
• Racing heart
• Rapid breathing 
• Loss of consciousness

Before these symptoms occur, moving indoors to an air-conditioned room can gradually lower the core body temperature to a safe range.  Drinking plenty of cool fluids is also helpful.

Fever in Newborns and Children

Fevers in newborns and children are often treated differently than those seen in adults. Please refer to the following links:

Fever in newborns can be serious, and should not be ignored.

Fever in Young Children (Toddlers) 

Remedies for fever in children

Note that the information in this article is purely informative and should never be used in place of the advice of your treating physicians.

Causes, types, symptoms and treatment for fever

Written by: Bronwen Watson

Reviewed by: Dr Tamlyn Maree

• Fever (Temperatures)
• Common causes and types of fever
• Signs and symptoms associated with fever
• Diagnosing and treating fever
• Risk factors and common complications of fever
• Fever FAQs

Defining fever

When a person’s body temperature temporarily increases, this is known as fever (also called controlled hyperthermia, pyrexia or elevated temperature). Often as a result of an illness, a fever is a symptom that something abnormal is happening in the body. How serious a fever is can be influenced by a person’s age, the underlying cause (which can sometimes be non-infectious in nature) and the temperature increase degree. A slightly elevated temperature may not always be as serious for an adult as it is likely to be for a young child (infant or toddler).

Fever is typically accompanied by a wave of fatigue or chills, and is often a response to an infection (viral or bacterial) or inflammation (due to tissue injury or illness). Non-infection causing fevers can be as a result of poisons, drugs, injuries to or abnormalities of the brain, heat exposure or endocrine diseases (problems with the glandular or hormonal system).

A typical fever (mild) should clear within a matter of days and can be treated with an assortment of available over-the-counter medications (or antipyretics). Sometimes a mild fever can clear on its own without the need for any medicinal treatment.

It has been noted that fever can also play a key role in helping the body’s immune system to naturally fend off a variety of infections (i.e. body temperature increases as a natural immune response to infection). The symptom of fever is one of the immune system’s natural attempts to get the better of an infection that is apparent in the body. The immune system alerts to the presence of an infection and ‘uses elevated body temperature’ to help resolve it. If body temperature (fever) is too high, the body cannot help to resolve whatever is wrong (i.e. neutralising some kind of bacterium or virus in the body) and the fever may result in serious side effects including dehydration, hallucinations and even convulsions.

A higher than normal increase in temperature can affect anyone of any age. A fever, alone, is not an illness, but does indicate that something not working as it should in the body. An infection of some kind is usually the underlying condition causing the symptom of fever. When severe, a fever is often a warning sign that the body is seriously unwell (a person may have a serious health condition) and needs prompt medical attention.

What is a normal body temperature?

A normal body temperature does vary from one person to the next, but is typically around 36 to 37 degrees Celsius (or 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Body temperature also tends to fluctuate at different times of the day – it is lower in the mornings and increases towards late afternoon and evening. Our body temperature is normally at its highest at around 6pm and at its lowest at around 3 in the morning. Some other factors which influence fluctuations in body temperature are intense exercise and for women, in particular, a menstrual cycle.

As a person’s body temperature increases, he or she may experience a temporary sensation of cold until the temperature plateaus (reaches its peak). A person experiencing a fever rarely does so without the presence of other symptoms. Most fevers are accompanied by a set of very specific symptoms. Together, a set of symptoms, including fever, can help a medical professional to be able to distinguish an underlying cause and diagnose a condition. The correct course of treatment can then be implemented so that a person can return to optimum health.

How does body temperature work?

The hypothalamus (pronounced hi-poe-THAL-uh-muhs) is a part of the brain which usually controls temperature in the body. The hypothalamus links the endocrine and nervous systems via the pituitary gland (hypophysis). This part of the brain is, in effect, the body’s own thermostat, which maintains a normal temperature through heating (such as increased metabolism) and cooling (such as sweating) mechanisms. The hypothalamus is effectively in the driver’s seat using key temperature sensors to control heating.

As skin temperature rises above its baseline, sweating begins and can increase rapidly. If body temperature drops below baseline, the control mechanisms initiate activity to conserve heat in the body and increase production of heat or warmth. This is done by means of the cessation of sweating, shivering (to increase the production of heat in the body’s muscles), the secretion of norepinephrine, thyroxine and epinephrine (hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate fight or flight, thyroid function and metabolism), and vasoconstriction (decreasing the flow of heat to the skin).

Fever-producing substances, or pyrogens, can enter the body and upset the natural flow of temperature, thus causing fever. Pyrogens are foreign to the body and typically come from a source outside of it (such as viruses, fungi, bacteria, illicit drugs or toxins), and stimulate additional pyrogens once inside. These effectively send a ‘message’ to the hypothalamus (known as neural feedback mechanisms) to increase body temperature. The effect is that the body’s normal heating mechanisms react by shivering and constricting blood vessels. The body is then primed to reach a new temperature that is higher than its normal baseline in order to eliminate temperature sensitive viruses and bacteria.

The body also produces its own pyrogens in response to inflammation causing fever (this is a natural response). These are known as endogenous pyrogens or cytokines.

Temperature devices (thermometers) can be used to determine a body temperature measurement. These devices can be inserted into a person’s mouth, rectum, axilla (under the armpit), skin or ear. Other devices which a medical professional may use have temperature-sensing probes that can record temperature while in use. These include laryngoscopes, rectal probes and bronchoscopes. A mercury thermometer is the most common device used, but digital thermometers with disposable probe covers are also regularly used. Rectal temperature measurements are generally more accurate (reflecting the core temperature) than those taken orally.

What temperature classifies as a fever?

• For babies or infants, a young child or teenager: When the body temperature exceeds 37.5 degrees Celsius (99.5 degrees Fahrenheit).
• For an adult: When the body temperature exceeds between 37.2 and 37.5 degrees Celsius (99 to 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit).

Fevers can be classified as:

• Low-grade: Temperatures range between 37.7 and 38.3 degrees Celsius (100 and 101 degrees Fahrenheit). If a low-grade fever doesn’t clear within 4 to 7 days, medical treatment should be sought out. If any fever persists, you must consult with you doctor for a thorough check-up.
• Intermediate: Temperatures of 38.8 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit) for an adult and ranging between 39.4 to 40 degrees Celsius (103 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit) for an infant (0-6 months of age). If a fever reaches this stage, it is best to seek assistance from a medical professional as soon as possible. The more prompt you are at addressing the fever and having it checked, the better.
• High-grade: Temperatures range between 39. 4 and 41.6 degrees Celsius (103 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. Extremely high fever is known as hyperpyrexia and can be very dangerous or life-threatening.

Body temperature readings – celsius to fahrenheit conversions

When taking body temperature readings, these may be in celsius. To convert celsius to fahrenheit you can use the following equations: 

T_(°F) = T_(°C) × 9/5 + 32

or

T_(°F) = T_(°C) × 1.8 + 32

Or you can refer to the table below which details celsius to fahrenheit conversions for easy reference.

Celsius (°C)	Fahrenheit (°F)
35 °C	95 °F
35.1 °C	95.18 °F
35.2 °C	95.36 °F
35.3 °C	95.54 °F
35. 4 °C	95.72 °F
35.5 °C	95.9 °F
35.6 °C	96.08 °F
35.7°C	96.26 °F
35.8 °C	96.44 °F
35.9 °C	96.62 °F
36 °C	96.8 °F
36.1 °C	96.98 °F
36.2 °C	97.16 °F
36.3 °C	97.34 °F
36.4 °C	97.52 °F
36.5 °C	97.7 °F
36.6 °C	97.88 °F
36.7 °C	98.06 °F
36.8 °C	98.24 °F
36.9 °C	98.42 °F
37 °C	98.6 °F
37.1 °C	98.78 °F
37.2 °C	98.96 °F
37. 3 °C	99.14 °F
37.4 °C	99.32 °F
37.5 °C	99.5 °F
37.6 °C	99.68 °F
37.7 °C	99.86 °F
37.8 °C	100.04 °F
37.9 °C	100.22 °F
38 °C	100.4 °F
38.1 °C	100.58 °F
38.2 °C	100.76 °F
38.3 °C	100.94 °F
38.4 °C	101.12 °F
38.5 °C	101.3 °F
38.6 °C	101.48 °F
38.7 °C	101.66 °F
38.8 °C	101.84 °F
38.9 °C	102.02 °F
39 °C	102.2 °F
39.1°C	102.38 °F
39. 2 °C	102.56 °F
39.3 °C	102.74 °F
39.4 °C	102.92 °F
39.5 °C	103.1 °F
39.6 °C	103.28 °F
39.7 °C	103.46 °F
39.8 °C	103.6 °F

Hemorrhagic fever disrupted children’s recreation

Check-in of the first shift at children’s health camps located on the territory of the Saratov natural park “Kumysnaya Polyana” and in the Tatishchevo district of the Saratov region was disrupted due to an outbreak of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). This severe infectious disease, which is carried by rodents, can lead to acute kidney failure. To date, there are 333 infected people in hospitals in the region, one person has died. In camps where shifts could not start on time, deratization is being carried out. In the public chamber of the region, the cancellation of arrivals of children is supported.

Photo: Dmitry Lebedev, Kommersant / buy photo

In the Saratov region, the arrival of the first shift to children’s camps located in the forest area of ​​the Kumysnaya Polyana natural park (Saratov) and in the neighboring Tatishchevsky district was canceled. This is associated with an outbreak of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). The first shift was supposed to start in the first half of June, but the control of the quality of deratting showed unsatisfactory results, experts announced the high activity of the natural focus of HFRS, and the races were canceled due to “high epidemiological risks,” the department of Rospotrebnadzor for the Saratov region specified. In total, there are 14 children’s health institutions in the Saratov forest. Information about the new arrival dates for children was promised to be posted on the website of the city education committee. The Ministry of Social Development of the region noted that the families of children who planned to rest in the camps of Saratov and the Tatishevsky district will be offered rest in other recreational institutions and municipal day camps.

HFRS (also known as mouse fever) is a viral infection transmitted by rodents. Infection occurs mainly by airborne dust: a person inhales contaminated dust. There is also evidence that mouse fever is transmitted to humans by the alimentary route, when water or food is infected with the secretions of infected rodents, or fever passes to humans with an infection that enters the body with dirty hands. HFRS is characterized by damage to small vessels, hemorrhagic diathesis, hemodynamic disorders, kidney damage with the development of acute renal failure. On the territory of the Saratov region there are several foci of this disease.

The authorities report a decrease in the incidence of the disease during the past week. According to the regional Ministry of Health, as of June 3, 333 infected people remain in the medical institutions of the region. Over the past few days, five people have been admitted for treatment, 234 patients have been discharged.

“In general, the diagnosis of HFRS was confirmed in 348 residents of the region, 54 were removed,” said the head of the regional Ministry of Health, Natalia Mazina. According to official data, one death from HFRS was registered: on May 30, a young woman with symptoms of the disease was admitted to one of the Saratov hospitals in critical condition, who died less than a day later, despite the medical assistance provided. Currently, the investigative department for the Oktyabrsky district is checking this fact.

The local Rospotrebnadzor said that specialists had issued more than 300 orders to heads of management companies, chairmen of non-profit gardening cooperatives, owners of markets and shopping malls in Saratov to take preventive measures.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology of the region organized a duty of specialists to limit the visits to the forest area by the population. As of June 1, deratization was carried out in Saratov on an area of ​​over 1.9thousand hectares, liquidated 102 unauthorized dumps, carried out sanitary felling of trees and shrubs on an area of ​​27 hectares, as well as clearing dead wood and overgrowth on an area of ​​127 hectares. Specialists of the Russian Research Anti-Plague Institute “Microbe” (in the system of Rospotrebnadzor) monitor the effectiveness of derat control at Kumysnaya Polyana. Governor Valery Radaev instructed to take areas with a high incidence of HFRS “under special control” and take “all necessary measures to eliminate the risks of further spread of the disease.”

The children’s recreational and educational center “Dubki” in the forest area refused to comment on the situation, saying that “questions should be asked to Rospotrebnadzor.”

The camp noted that there is no focus of this disease on its territory, deratization and control of its quality were carried out.

Elena Sokolenko, executive director of the Beryozka children’s sports and health center on the territory of Kumysnaya Polyana, also reported that the facility had been deratized, and an examination by the Rospotrebnadzor showed that there was no outbreak of HFRS on the territory. “Two weeks ago, we had a meeting of young policemen – 850 children from all over the region came, plus 100 adults. Of these, 300 people lived in the center for three days. There was no information that someone, God forbid, fell ill,” said Ms. Sokolenko. According to her, the cancellation of the check-in did not affect the activities of the center – the shift, in accordance with the schedule, should open on June 14, before that the deratization of the territory will be carried out again.

Nikolay Popov, a representative of the Microbe Institute, noted that an outbreak of HFRS is observed once every five to seven years, but this year its scale is larger, since the increase in the number of carriers of the disease began last autumn: “The winter was warm. The rodents felt comfortable under the snow due to the high yield of seeds. This year, for the May holidays, the townspeople went en masse to Kumysnaya Polyana, and as a result, we have what we have – 60% of those infected got this disease when leaving for the forest, 40% – in summer cottages.

Natalia Korolkova, chairman of the commission on social policy and healthy lifestyles of citizens of the regional public chamber, notes that the Rospotrebnadzor department “keeps the situation with HFRS under control”: “Cancellation of the arrival of the first shift to children’s camps is the right decision. Unsatisfactory results of the control of the effectiveness of deratization is very serious.”

Marina Kovaleva, Saratov

The view of Izhevsk schoolchildren on the USSR and the gold rush in Russia: news up to this hour // IA Susanin

What has been discussed in the media and social networks in the last few hours.

Izhevsk. Udmurtia. Car owners again had to clear their iron friends from snow – a good exercise at the end of the working week. And for everyone who is not driving, we offer to recharge with a portion of good news. Let’s go.

Native speech

A thematic calendar in the Besermian language has been released in Udmurtia. This was told by members of the Glazov Besermyan community on the VKontakte social network.

The thirteen-page edition of A3 format describes the traditional life of the Besermen and tells about the customs of this small people, corresponding to each month of the year. The author of the illustrations is Lyudmila Bushmeleva, a native Beseryan woman from the Yukamensky district, a teacher of fine arts from the Glazov school No. 17. It took her 10 days to study the material and write 12 full-fledged paintings.

With pioneering enthusiasm

“The USSR speaks and shows” – an exhibition with this title opens on Friday, December 10 at the Palace of Children’s and Youth Creativity in Izhevsk. This was reported by the press service of the city administration.

The new exposition is dedicated to the work of pioneer and Komsomol organizations in the 1970-1980s in the USSR. Pupils of the palace deciphered this abbreviation as “Fair, Strong, Courageous Guys.” The exhibition will tell modern schoolchildren and youth about the life of their peers in the Soviet Union in the 20th century.

Home, sweet home…

It was not in vain that Beze the cat got its name – the same little white sweetie. Bezeshka is beautiful, calm and self-sufficient. But in dreams, of course, she is sad about a good home and loving owners.

Gold Rush

Russians have bought a record amount of gold over the past 5 years. According to Izvestia, in the 3rd quarter of 2021, the population purchased 4 tons of precious metal in the form of ingots and coins. This is 8% more than in the same period of 2020.

The “gold rush” has swept other major countries of the world. Residents of the United States bought 91.3 tons of this asset, sales growth was 79%. The volume of sales of the precious metal to the population in China increased by 54% – up to 208.5 tons. Citizens of India invested in the purchase of 101.5 tons of gold, which is 24% more than last year.

Witchcraft, not otherwise

Almost half a million US dollars sold at auction the first edition of the Harry Potter novel in the US state of Texas.