šŸ•·ļø Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:
Response:
Calculated Shard: 187 (from laksa064)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:
Response:

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:
Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:
Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ā„¹ļø Skipped - page is already crawled

šŸ“„
INDEXABLE
āœ…
CRAWLED
16 days ago
šŸ¤–
ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

FilterStatusConditionDetails
HTTP statusPASSdownload_http_code = 200HTTP 200
Age cutoffPASSdownload_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH0.6 months ago
History dropPASSisNull(history_drop_reason)No drop reason
Spam/banPASSfh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0ml_spam_score=0
CanonicalPASSmeta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsedNot set

Page Details

PropertyValue
URLhttps://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer
Last Crawled2026-04-01 07:29:50 (16 days ago)
First Indexed2018-01-22 18:22:43 (8 years ago)
HTTP Status Code200
Meta TitleTypes of thermometer for fever | healthdirect
Meta DescriptionTypes of thermometers to check for fever include digital, ear, strip, and infrared. Learn which is most accurate and best suited for you.
Meta Canonicalnull
Boilerpipe Text
Key facts There are many thermometers available for home use, including digital, ear, strip and infrared thermometers. Some thermometers are more suitable for specific age groups and situations. Digital thermometers used under the arm or tongue are the easiest for home use. Mercury thermometers are not recommended. Follow the instructions that come with the thermometer to get the most accurate temperature reading. On this page Why do I need a thermometer? How do I measure body temperature? What are the different types of thermometers and why might I choose them? Resources and support Related information on Australian websites Why do I need a thermometer? You may need to measure body temperature if you think you, your child , or someone else has a fever . A fever is a body temperature above 38ā„ƒ and can be a sign that the body is fighting off illness or infection. Use a thermometer to check for a fever. There are different types of thermometers, and they have different features. Normal body temperature can vary depending on age, time of day and how you measure it. Take your temperature when you feel well to give you an idea of your normal temperature range. This way, you will have something to compare to when you feel sick. Remember that fever is just one sign of illness, and your body temperature is not always the most important measure of how sick you are. Check all your symptoms and see your doctor if you feel unwell. Read more about: fever in children fever in babies febrile seizures CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help. How do I measure body temperature? You can measure someone’s body temperature in different ways and the results can vary depending on the type of thermometer you use. Always follow the manufacturer's directions. You can measure body temperature using a thermometer designed for use in the: armpit (axillary) mouth (oral) ear (tympanic) back passage or bottom (rectal) Most types of thermometers are available for sale at your local pharmacy or supermarket. Some thermometers and methods work better for different age groups. Ask your Maternal and Child Health Nurse , GP or pharmacist to show you how to use your thermometer to get the most accurate reading for your child. When comparing measurements, always use the same type of thermometer in the same location on the body. What are the different types of thermometers and why might I choose them? Digital 'stick' thermometers Digital thermometers are quick to use and reasonably accurate. You can used them under the arm (in the armpit) or under the tongue. The silver tip or the thin end of the thermometer is the part that measures body temperature. Make sure it is held in the right place to get an accurate temperature reading. Under the arm (axillary) Under the arm (axillary) digital thermometer is the preferred method for babies younger than 3 months of age. Place thermometer tip in the centre of the armpit, when the skin is dry. Place the baby's arm securely against their body. Turn thermometer on and leave the thermometer in place for the time stated in the manufacturer's instructions. Under the tongue (oral) Under the tongue (oral) digital thermometer is useful for adults or children who are old enough to understand how to keep the thermometer under their tongue. It’s important not to bite the thermometer, and to keep it in place for the amount of time listed in the instructions. Do not use oral thermometers if your child is shivering. Check the person hasn't had anything hot or cold to eat or drink for 20 minutes before you take an oral temperature. Place the tip under their tongue and ask them to close their mouth and lips to keep the thermometer in place. Turn thermometer on and wait until it beeps. In the back passage (rectal) In the back passage (rectal) is the most accurate measurement of core body temperature. It can be dangerous and distressing if the adult or child is moving around too much. It is important to disinfect your thermometer before and after use with warm, soapy water or an alcohol wipe. Ear (tympanic) thermometers Ear thermometers take your temperature very quickly, so they are useful for adults or children who find it hard to sit still. They can be expensive, and the reading may not be accurate if the thermometer is not placed correctly in the ear. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to get an accurate temperature reading. Gently insert the probe into ear canal with the tip facing the inside, towards the inner ear. Make sure the ear canal is totally sealed off. Press the thermometer button and wait for the beep. If ears have been covered (for example, with headphones or a beanie), remove the items and wait until the ear canal is cool before measuring the ear temperature. If your baby's ear canals are too small to properly insert the probe, choose another type of thermometer. Infrared thermometers These use an infrared scanner to measure body temperature without direct contact with the skin. You hold the scanner a few centimetres away from the body to read temperature. These are the easiest types of thermometers to use, but they can be inaccurate. Strip-type thermometers Strip-type or plastic tape thermometers are placed on the forehead and change colour according to body temperature. They are not generally very accurate. Mercury thermometers Do not use mercury thermometers. Mercury in glass thermometers haven't been used in hospitals for some years and are generally no longer available to buy. They can break, releasing small shards of glass and highly poisonous mercury. Resources and support For information on looking after a child with a fever, visit the Queensland Health Fever in Children factsheet . Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network explains fever signs and symptoms, as well as treatment . Call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice. Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call . Available from 7 am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week (including public holidays). Other languages For more information in different community languages, the Royal Children’s Hospital has translated fact sheets on fever in children .
Markdown
[![healthdirect australia logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-hda.svg)](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/) Sign in - [Join](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/account/join) - [Sign in](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/account/signin) Menu # Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on. Join Sign in Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do. - [Home](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/) - Health topics A-Z - [Conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/conditions) [Gastroenteritis](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/gastroenteritis) [Skin Conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/skin-conditions) [Whooping Cough](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/whooping-cough) - [Symptoms](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/symptoms) [Abdominal Pain](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/abdominal-pain) [Bites and Stings](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bites-and-stings) [Diarrhoea](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/diarrhoea) - [Procedures](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/procedures) [Colonoscopy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/colonoscopy) [Grommets](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/grommets) [Liposuction](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/liposuction) [Tubal ligation](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/tubal-ligation) - [Life stages](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/life-stages) [Babies and toddlers](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/babies-and-toddlers-health) [Kids](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/kids-health) [Seniors](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/seniors-health) - [All topics](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics) [A](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/A) [B](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/B) [C](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/C) [D](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/D) [E](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/E) [F](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/F) [G](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/G) [H](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/H) [I](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/I) [J](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/J) [K](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/K) [L](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/L) [M](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/M) [N](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/N) [O](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/O) [P](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/P) [Q](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/Q) [R](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/R) [S](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/S) [T](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/T) [U](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/U) [V](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/V) [W](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/W) [X](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/X) [Y](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/Y) [Z](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/Z) - [Medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines) - [Symptom checker](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) - [Service finder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) Menu Close - [Home](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/) - [Health topics A-Z](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer) - [Conditions](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/conditions) - [Symptoms](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/symptoms) - [Procedures](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics/procedures) - [Life stages](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/life-stages) - [All topics](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-topics) - [Medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines) - [Symptom checker](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) - [Service finder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) [beginning of content]() # Types of thermometer for fever *8-minute read* Print Share [share via Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer "Share this page on Facebook") share via Email Save [Listen](https://app-oc.readspeaker.com/cgi-bin/rsent?customerid=8207&lang=en_au&readid=mainContentArticleText&url=https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer "Listen to this page using ReadSpeaker") ## Key facts - There are many thermometers available for home use, including digital, ear, strip and infrared thermometers. - Some thermometers are more suitable for specific age groups and situations. - Digital thermometers used under the arm or tongue are the easiest for home use. - Mercury thermometers are not recommended. - Follow the instructions that come with the thermometer to get the most accurate temperature reading. ## On this page - [Why do I need a thermometer?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#why) - [How do I measure body temperature?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#how) - [What are the different types of thermometers and why might I choose them?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#types) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#searchGeneralResults) ## Why do I need a thermometer? You may need to measure body temperature if you think you, [your child](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever-and-high-temperature-in-children), or someone else has a [fever](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever). A fever is a body temperature above 38ā„ƒ and can be a sign that the body is fighting off illness or infection. Use a thermometer to check for a fever. There are different types of thermometers, and they have different features. Normal body temperature can vary depending on age, time of day and how you measure it. Take your temperature when you feel well to give you an idea of your normal temperature range. This way, you will have something to compare to when you feel sick. **If you have a baby under 3 months old with a fever above 38°C, take them to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately, even if they have no other symptoms.** Remember that fever is just one sign of illness, and your body temperature is not always the most important measure of how sick you are. Check all your symptoms and see your doctor if you feel unwell. Read more about: - [fever in children](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever-and-high-temperature-in-children) - [fever in babies](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/fever-in-babies) - [febrile seizures](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/seizures#febrile-seizure) [**CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS** — Use the **Symptom Checker** and find out if you need to seek medical help.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) ## How do I measure body temperature? You can measure someone’s body temperature in different ways and the results can vary depending on the type of thermometer you use. Always follow the manufacturer's directions. You can measure body temperature using a thermometer designed for use in the: - armpit (axillary) - mouth (oral) - ear (tympanic) - back passage or bottom (rectal) Most types of thermometers are available for sale at your local pharmacy or supermarket. Some thermometers and methods work better for different age groups. Ask your [Maternal and Child Health Nurse](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/child-health-nurse), [GP](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-a-gp) or [pharmacist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/getting-the-most-out-of-your-pharmacist) to show you how to use your thermometer to get the most accurate reading for your child. When comparing measurements, always use the same type of thermometer in the same location on the body. ## What are the different types of thermometers and why might I choose them? ### Digital 'stick' thermometers Digital thermometers are quick to use and reasonably accurate. You can used them under the arm (in the armpit) or under the tongue. The silver tip or the thin end of the thermometer is the part that measures body temperature. Make sure it is held in the right place to get an accurate temperature reading. #### Under the arm (axillary) Under the arm (axillary) digital thermometer is the preferred method for babies younger than 3 months of age. 1. Place thermometer tip in the centre of the armpit, when the skin is dry. 2. Place the baby's arm securely against their body. 3. Turn thermometer on and leave the thermometer in place for the time stated in the manufacturer's instructions. #### Under the tongue (oral) Under the tongue (oral) digital thermometer is useful for adults or children who are old enough to understand how to keep the thermometer under their tongue. It’s important not to bite the thermometer, and to keep it in place for the amount of time listed in the instructions. Do not use oral thermometers if your child is shivering. 1. Check the person hasn't had anything hot or cold to eat or drink for 20 minutes before you take an oral temperature. 2. Place the tip under their tongue and ask them to close their mouth and lips to keep the thermometer in place. 3. Turn thermometer on and wait until it beeps. #### In the back passage (rectal) In the back passage (rectal) is the most accurate measurement of core body temperature. It can be dangerous and distressing if the adult or child is moving around too much. It is important to disinfect your thermometer before and after use with warm, soapy water or an alcohol wipe. ### Ear (tympanic) thermometers Ear thermometers take your temperature very quickly, so they are useful for adults or children who find it hard to sit still. They can be expensive, and the reading may not be accurate if the thermometer is not placed correctly in the ear. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to get an accurate temperature reading. 1. Gently insert the probe into ear canal with the tip facing the inside, towards the inner ear. Make sure the ear canal is totally sealed off. 2. Press the thermometer button and wait for the beep. If ears have been covered (for example, with headphones or a beanie), remove the items and wait until the ear canal is cool before measuring the ear temperature. If your baby's ear canals are too small to properly insert the probe, choose another type of thermometer. ### Infrared thermometers These use an infrared scanner to measure body temperature without direct contact with the skin. You hold the scanner a few centimetres away from the body to read temperature. These are the easiest types of thermometers to use, but they can be inaccurate. ### Strip-type thermometers Strip-type or plastic tape thermometers are placed on the forehead and change colour according to body temperature. They are not generally very accurate. ### Mercury thermometers Do not use mercury thermometers. Mercury in glass thermometers haven't been used in hospitals for some years and are generally no longer available to buy. They can break, releasing small shards of glass and highly poisonous mercury. **If you think or know your child has been exposed to mercury call the [Poisons Information Centre](https://www.health.gov.au/contacts/poisons-information-centre) on [13 11 26](tel:131126).** ![Illustrations of three different types of thermometers with reference images of where to use them on the body; Ear (tympanic) thermometers - in the ear, Digital 'stick' thermometers - under the arm and Infrared thermometers - pointed at the forehead.](https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/inline/original/hd_thermometers-desktop_v09-04-25-57a43a.png) [Download this guide as a PDF](https://media.healthdirect.org.au/publications/HD_Thermometers_v09-04-25.pdf) ![Illustrations of three different types of thermometers with reference images of where to use them on the body; Ear (tympanic) thermometers - in the ear, Digital 'stick' thermometers - under the arm and Infrared thermometers - pointed at the forehead.](https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/inline/original/hd_thermometers-device_09-04-25-2141ce.png) [Download this guide as a PDF](https://media.healthdirect.org.au/publications/HD_Thermometers_v09-04-25.pdf) ## Resources and support - For information on looking after a child with a fever, visit the Queensland Health [Fever in Children factsheet](https://clinicalexcellence.qld.gov.au/sites/default/files/2018-02/child_fever.pdf). - Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network explains [fever signs and symptoms, as well as treatment](https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/fever-factsheet). - Call the [healthdirect helpline](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-healthdirect-can-help-you) on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice. - Call [Pregnancy, Birth and Baby](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/about-pregnancy-birth-and-baby) to speak to a maternal child health nurse on [1800 882 436](tel:1800882436) or [video call](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/video-call). Available from 7 am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week (including public holidays). ### Other languages For more information in different community languages, the Royal Children’s Hospital has [translated fact sheets on fever in children](https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/fever_in_children/). #### Sources: The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne *[(Fever in children)](https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Fever_in_children/ "Fever in children")*, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne *[(Clinical Guidelines Febrile child)](https://www.rch.org.au/clinicalguide/guideline_index/febrile_child/ "Clinical Guidelines Febrile child")*, Clinical Excellence Queensland *[(Fever in children - Emergency Department factsheets)](https://clinicalexcellence.qld.gov.au/sites/default/files/2018-02/child_fever.pdf "Fever in children - Emergency Department factsheets")*, The Sydney Children’s Hospital Network *[(Fever)](https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/fever-factsheet "Fever")*, SafeWork NSW *[(Core body temperature v peripheral body temperature)](https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/resource-library/heat-and-environment/working-in-extreme-heat-the-facts/accordians/core-body-temperature "Core body temperature v peripheral body temperature")*, AusMed *[(Vital Signs: Temperature Checking)](https://www.ausmed.com/learn/articles/temperature-checking "Vital Signs: Temperature Checking")*, St John Ambulance Australia (VIC) *[(Thermometers)](https://www.stjohnvic.com.au/products/ppe/thermometers/ "Thermometers")*, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne *[(Temperature Management)](https://www.rch.org.au/rchcpg/hospital_clinical_guideline_index/Temperature_management/ "Temperature Management")* Learn more here about the [development and quality assurance of healthdirect content](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/about-our-content). Last reviewed: July 2024 [Back To Top](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#backToTop) ## Search our site for - [Fever](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Fever "Search results for: Fever") ## Need more information? These trusted information partners have more on this topic. General search results Results for medical professionals Top results [Video: How to use a digital thermometer - myDr.com.au The most commonly used thermometer in the home is the digital thermometer. Find out how to record a temperature orally using a digital thermometer. *Read more on myDoctor website* ![myDoctor](https://media.healthdirect.org.au/images/logos/h40/mydoctor-new_logo-1f39cc.png)](https://mydr.com.au/kids-teens-health/video-how-to-use-a-digital-thermometer/) Show more Top results Show more ## Disclaimer Healthdirect Australia is not responsible for the content and advertising on the external website you are now entering. [OK]() ## Search our site for - [Fever](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/Fever "Search results for: Fever") ## Symptom checker **Worried about your health?** Select a symptom, answer some questions, get advice [Start Your Symptom Check](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker "Check symptoms") [Check your symptoms](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker/tool?symptom=GNRC) [Find a health service](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) # Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline 24 hour health advice you can count on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) # Government Accredited with over 140 information partners ![Healthdirect logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-hda.svg) We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice [![Australian Government, health department logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-dep-health.svg)](https://www.health.gov.au/) [![ACT Government logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-act.svg)](https://www.health.act.gov.au/) [![New South Wales government logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-nsw.svg)](https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/) [![Northern Territory Government logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-nt.svg)](https://health.nt.gov.au/) [![Queensland Government logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-qld.svg)](https://www.health.qld.gov.au/) [![Government of South Australia logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-sa.svg)](https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/) [![Tasmanian government logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-tas.svg)](https://www.health.tas.gov.au/) [![Victorian government logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-vic.svg)](https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/) [![Government of Western Australia logo](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/logo-gov-wa.svg)](https://ww2.health.wa.gov.au/) ## About - [How we can help](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-healthdirect-can-help-you) - [Our mobile app](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-app) - [Linking to us](https://about.healthdirect.gov.au/linking-to-us) - [Information partners](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/information-partners) - [Register your service](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/register-with-nhsd) - [Terms of use](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/terms-of-use) - [Privacy](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/privacy-policy) - [How we use AI](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/artificial-intelligence-transparency-statement) - [Contact us](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/contact-us) - [About us](https://about.healthdirect.gov.au/) ## Discover - [Blog](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blog) - [BMI calculator](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bmi-calculator) - [Health apps](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing-apps) - [Medicines](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines) - [Service finder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services) - [Symptom checker](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) - [Question builder](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/question-builder) ## Resources in your language - [Arabic عربى](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/ar/resources-in-arabic) - [বাংলা Bengali](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bn/resources-in-bengali) - [简体中文 Chinese Simplified](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zh-hans/resources-in-chinese-simplified) - [繁體中文 Chinese Traditional](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zh-hant/resources-in-chinese-traditional) - [Tiįŗæng Việt Vietnamese](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/vi/resources-in-vietnamese) [![download from the App store](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/app-apple-store.png)](https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/healthdirect-check-symptoms/id1021494621?ls=1&mt=8) [![download from google play](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/assets/images/app-google-play.png)](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=au.org.healthdirect.healthdirectapp) Healthdirect Australia is dedicated to providing safe, effective and person-centred advice, supported by rigorous [clinical governance](https://about.healthdirect.gov.au/end-to-end-service-delivery) and transparent [quality and safety processes](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/quality-and-safety-of-healthdirects-triage-service-statement). This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google [Privacy Policy](https://policies.google.com/privacy) and [Terms of Service](https://policies.google.com/terms) apply. Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present. Ā© 2026 Healthdirect Australia Limited ## Support for this browser is being discontinued Support for this browser is being discontinued for this site - Internet Explorer 11 and lower We currently support Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox and Safari. For more information, please visit the links below: - [Chrome by Google](https://www.google.com.au/chrome/) - [Firefox by Mozilla](https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new) - [Microsoft Edge](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/edge) - [Safari by Apple](https://support.apple.com/en_AU/downloads/safari) You are welcome to continue browsing this site with this browser. Some features, tools or interaction may not work correctly. Continue ![](https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=286390378916509&ev=PageView%0A%0A&noscript=1)
Readable Markdown
## Key facts - There are many thermometers available for home use, including digital, ear, strip and infrared thermometers. - Some thermometers are more suitable for specific age groups and situations. - Digital thermometers used under the arm or tongue are the easiest for home use. - Mercury thermometers are not recommended. - Follow the instructions that come with the thermometer to get the most accurate temperature reading. ## On this page - [Why do I need a thermometer?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#why) - [How do I measure body temperature?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#how) - [What are the different types of thermometers and why might I choose them?](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#types) - [Resources and support](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#resources) - [Related information on Australian websites](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/types-of-thermometer#searchGeneralResults) ## Why do I need a thermometer? You may need to measure body temperature if you think you, [your child](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever-and-high-temperature-in-children), or someone else has a [fever](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever). A fever is a body temperature above 38ā„ƒ and can be a sign that the body is fighting off illness or infection. Use a thermometer to check for a fever. There are different types of thermometers, and they have different features. Normal body temperature can vary depending on age, time of day and how you measure it. Take your temperature when you feel well to give you an idea of your normal temperature range. This way, you will have something to compare to when you feel sick. Remember that fever is just one sign of illness, and your body temperature is not always the most important measure of how sick you are. Check all your symptoms and see your doctor if you feel unwell. Read more about: - [fever in children](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever-and-high-temperature-in-children) - [fever in babies](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/fever-in-babies) - [febrile seizures](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/seizures#febrile-seizure) [**CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS** — Use the **Symptom Checker** and find out if you need to seek medical help.](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/symptom-checker) ## How do I measure body temperature? You can measure someone’s body temperature in different ways and the results can vary depending on the type of thermometer you use. Always follow the manufacturer's directions. You can measure body temperature using a thermometer designed for use in the: - armpit (axillary) - mouth (oral) - ear (tympanic) - back passage or bottom (rectal) Most types of thermometers are available for sale at your local pharmacy or supermarket. Some thermometers and methods work better for different age groups. Ask your [Maternal and Child Health Nurse](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/child-health-nurse), [GP](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/the-role-of-a-gp) or [pharmacist](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/getting-the-most-out-of-your-pharmacist) to show you how to use your thermometer to get the most accurate reading for your child. When comparing measurements, always use the same type of thermometer in the same location on the body. ## What are the different types of thermometers and why might I choose them? ### Digital 'stick' thermometers Digital thermometers are quick to use and reasonably accurate. You can used them under the arm (in the armpit) or under the tongue. The silver tip or the thin end of the thermometer is the part that measures body temperature. Make sure it is held in the right place to get an accurate temperature reading. #### Under the arm (axillary) Under the arm (axillary) digital thermometer is the preferred method for babies younger than 3 months of age. 1. Place thermometer tip in the centre of the armpit, when the skin is dry. 2. Place the baby's arm securely against their body. 3. Turn thermometer on and leave the thermometer in place for the time stated in the manufacturer's instructions. #### Under the tongue (oral) Under the tongue (oral) digital thermometer is useful for adults or children who are old enough to understand how to keep the thermometer under their tongue. It’s important not to bite the thermometer, and to keep it in place for the amount of time listed in the instructions. Do not use oral thermometers if your child is shivering. 1. Check the person hasn't had anything hot or cold to eat or drink for 20 minutes before you take an oral temperature. 2. Place the tip under their tongue and ask them to close their mouth and lips to keep the thermometer in place. 3. Turn thermometer on and wait until it beeps. #### In the back passage (rectal) In the back passage (rectal) is the most accurate measurement of core body temperature. It can be dangerous and distressing if the adult or child is moving around too much. It is important to disinfect your thermometer before and after use with warm, soapy water or an alcohol wipe. ### Ear (tympanic) thermometers Ear thermometers take your temperature very quickly, so they are useful for adults or children who find it hard to sit still. They can be expensive, and the reading may not be accurate if the thermometer is not placed correctly in the ear. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to get an accurate temperature reading. 1. Gently insert the probe into ear canal with the tip facing the inside, towards the inner ear. Make sure the ear canal is totally sealed off. 2. Press the thermometer button and wait for the beep. If ears have been covered (for example, with headphones or a beanie), remove the items and wait until the ear canal is cool before measuring the ear temperature. If your baby's ear canals are too small to properly insert the probe, choose another type of thermometer. ### Infrared thermometers These use an infrared scanner to measure body temperature without direct contact with the skin. You hold the scanner a few centimetres away from the body to read temperature. These are the easiest types of thermometers to use, but they can be inaccurate. ### Strip-type thermometers Strip-type or plastic tape thermometers are placed on the forehead and change colour according to body temperature. They are not generally very accurate. ### Mercury thermometers Do not use mercury thermometers. Mercury in glass thermometers haven't been used in hospitals for some years and are generally no longer available to buy. They can break, releasing small shards of glass and highly poisonous mercury. ## Resources and support - For information on looking after a child with a fever, visit the Queensland Health [Fever in Children factsheet](https://clinicalexcellence.qld.gov.au/sites/default/files/2018-02/child_fever.pdf). - Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network explains [fever signs and symptoms, as well as treatment](https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/fever-factsheet). - Call the [healthdirect helpline](https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/how-healthdirect-can-help-you) on [1800 022 222](tel:1800022222) at any time to speak to a registered nurse (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for more information and advice. - Call [Pregnancy, Birth and Baby](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/about-pregnancy-birth-and-baby) to speak to a maternal child health nurse on [1800 882 436](tel:1800882436) or [video call](https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/video-call). Available from 7 am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week (including public holidays). ### Other languages For more information in different community languages, the Royal Children’s Hospital has [translated fact sheets on fever in children](https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/fever_in_children/).
Shard187 (laksa)
Root Hash11476440364350543187
Unparsed URLau,gov,healthdirect!www,/types-of-thermometer s443