Is fever contagious?

Medically Reviewed by Checkmark Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Sravanthi Sunkaraneni
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Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Fever is a temporary rise in internal body temperature that is slightly higher than the body’s normal temperature. It is one of the innate immune responses of the body to any threat, particularly bacterial or viral infections. Therefore, it is critical to understand whether fever is transmissible, and if it can be prevented or managed with home remedies.

If someone has a fever, are they contagious?

No. It is worth noting that having a fever does not make anyone contagious. Since fever is a symptom, not a disease. Thus, the condition that caused the rise in temperature is usually what determines transmission. Furthermore, contagious infections do not always cause fever. Some non-infectious conditions that can cause fever include allergies, dehydration, hormone imbalances, and cancer. As a result of the causative conditions – sweating, shivering, headaches, muscle aches, loss of appetite, generalized weakness, and even dehydration could accompany the rise in body temperature. Thus, one should exercise caution when using fever as a guideline for when to avoid contact with others.

Among the most common causes of fever are viral infections such as the flu and chickenpox; bacterial infections, food poisoning, certain medications, and even vaccination. And hence, managing the causative agent would aid in lowering body temperature.

Is it possible to manage the fever at home?

Yes, but not always. Please keep in mind that the treatment for any fever is determined by the severity of the underlying condition. A slight rise in body temperature with no other symptoms usually does not necessitate medical attention. And you can usually manage such mild body temperature elevations by drinking fluids and resting.

However, if it is accompanied by mild symptoms, such as general discomfort or dehydration; rest and plenty of fluids along with a prescribed medication may provide symptomatic relief. Remember that antipyretics should never be self-administered.

Can I prevent fever?

Yes, you can avoid it to some extent. Since viral and bacterial infections are the leading causes of fever in both adults and children, the best way to avoid it is to limit exposure to causative infectious foreign bodies. You can do this by washing hands, carrying hand sanitizers, and avoiding touching the eyes, mouth, and nose, particularly in public places. Additionally, avoid sharing cups, glasses, and eating utensils with other people.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

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Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

More in

Questions
Fact Check
Interviews
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Videos
Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Can fever communicate from one person to another?
No. Fever is not contagious. Since fever is a symptom rather than a disease, the cause of the fever is usually what determines transmission.

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Shabnam Sengupta

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

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Dr. Saumya Saluja
Dr. Saumya Saluja
A periodontal surgeon by qualification, Dr. Saumya is responsible for reviewing health content and driving health literacy projects.
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