How to Take Your Oral Temperature

March 5, 2020

Checking for a fever can help determine when it’s time to call the doctor if you're not feeling well. Follow these guidelines for taking the temperature of adults and children over age five accurately using an oral thermometer.

Call your doctor if you have a temperature of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher. You may need medical care.

Download a printable temperature and symptom log

Wait

At least 15 minutes after eating or drinking before taking your temperature.

Take Temperature

1. Place the tip of a clean thermometer under your tongue.
2. Wait about one minute. Some thermometers beep when done.
3. Record your temperature.
4. Clean your thermometer.

Clean Thermometer

Clean your thermometer before and after you use it with either rubbing alcohol or lukewarm soapy water, then rinse with cool water. Wipe it dry with a clean cloth or let it air dry.

Ask Doctor

Ask your doctor how to take temperatures of those under 5 years of age.

Sourced from the New Jersey Department of Health