Body temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit
A typical adult body temperature is around 37 °C (98.6 °F). The NHS notes that normal temperature varies between people and through the day; Mayo Clinic gives a typical range of about 97 to 99 °F (36.1 to 37.2 °C). Both treat 38 °C (100.4 °F) or above as a high temperature, or fever, in adults.
This page converts units and quotes published thresholds. It is not medical advice. If you are worried about a temperature, especially in a baby or young child, contact a doctor, a pharmacist, NHS 111 or your local health service.
Convert a thermometer reading
98.6 °F
Below the 38 °C high-temperature threshold and within the range commonly described as typical.
Body temperature chart
| °C | °F | Published reference point |
|---|---|---|
| 35 | 95 | Below 35 °C: hypothermia (NHS) |
| 35.5 | 95.9 | |
| 36 | 96.8 | |
| 36.1 | 97 | Low end of Mayo Clinic typical range |
| 36.5 | 97.7 | |
| 36.8 | 98.2 | |
| 37 | 98.6 | Classic average (98.6 °F) |
| 37.2 | 99 | High end of Mayo Clinic typical range |
| 37.5 | 99.5 | |
| 37.8 | 100 | |
| 38 | 100.4 | NHS high temperature / fever threshold |
| 38.3 | 100.9 | |
| 38.5 | 101.3 | |
| 39 | 102.2 | |
| 39.5 | 103.1 | |
| 40 | 104 | |
| 40.5 | 104.9 | |
| 41 | 105.8 |
Questions
What is normal body temperature in Celsius?
The long-quoted average is 37 °C (98.6 °F). The NHS notes that normal temperature differs from person to person and through the day, and Mayo Clinic gives a typical range of about 36.1 to 37.2 °C (97 to 99 °F); it varies by person, time of day and where it is measured.
What temperature counts as a fever?
The NHS treats 38 °C or above as a high temperature. Mayo Clinic uses 100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher for a fever measured by mouth in adults.
What is 38 °C in Fahrenheit?
38 °C is 100.4 °F.
What is 100 °F in Celsius?
100 °F is 37.8 °C.