Temperature chart

Body temperature of below 30C: Severe risk of hypothermia. High risk of fatality in babies and children.

Body temperature of below 35C: Risk of hypothermia, especially dangerous in the very young or old. Elderly people can develop hypothermia slowly over a number of days.

Body temperature of 36-37C: Normal body temperature of babies and children.

Body temperature of above 37C: Can indicate fever in babies and young children; at this temperature monitoring is required but it is not harmful.

Body temperature of 36-38 C: Normal body temperature of adults.

Body temperature of 39C or above: Indicates fever in babies and children. Requires medical attention.

Body temperature of 40C or above: Indicates fever in adults and children. This temperature can be very dangerous; medical attention is required.

Rashes

Chickenpox: A rash of small blisters is the main symptom. The disease is usually more serious in adults. A doctor should be consulted; itching can be relieved by applying calamine lotion.

Measles: The main symptom is a red mottled-and-blotchy rash. It can occur after immunisation. Call the doctor within 24 hours.

Meningitis: The main warning sign is a non-fading rash consisting of dark red and purple blotches that do not disappear when a glass tumbler is pressed against them. It may also be accompanied by vomiting. Call an ambulance immediately.

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