What temperature range is considered normal for a healthy adult?

While 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit is widely recognized as the average normal body temperature, it is important to understand that normal body temperature can vary among individuals. The typical range for a healthy adult is generally accepted as being between 97.0 to 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit. This range takes into account factors such as the individual's age, activity level, time of day, and the method of measurement (oral, rectal, axillary, etc.).

The value of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit is often quoted as a benchmark, but many healthcare professionals acknowledge that healthy individuals can have body temperatures that fall within the broader range mentioned. Therefore, while 98.6 degrees is a key figure, the correct response recognizes the variability and adaptability of normal body temperature in healthy adults across a slightly wider range of 97.0 to 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit. This inclusiveness accounts for different physiological conditions and environmental influences on body temperature.