What is considered a normal body temperature in Fahrenheit?

The normal body temperature for a healthy adult is widely recognized as 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. This value is based on research conducted by the physician Karl Landsteiner in the late 19th century, and it serves as a reference point for assessing an individual’s health. Body temperature can be influenced by various factors, including the time of day, individual metabolism, and activity levels, but 98.6 F is still considered the standard average.

While other temperatures listed may be observed in different scenarios—such as a mildly elevated temperature at 99.1 F or a low-grade fever at 100.4 F—the values are not representative of the standard normal body temperature. A temperature of 97.0 F might occur in some individuals but is below the accepted average. Recognizing 98.6 F as the norm is crucial for healthcare providers to diagnose and monitor potential health issues effectively.