Thermometers by age

Healthcare professionals may recommend certain types of thermometers based on a person’s age.

• Under 3 months. Use a rectal contact thermometer or a contactless forehead thermometer.
• Ages 3 to 6 months. Use rectal and armpit contact thermometers. Or use a contactless forehead thermometer.
• Ages 7 months to 3 years. The rectal, ear and forehead contact thermometers work well for this age group. Or use a contactless forehead thermometer.
• Age 4 years and older. Contact thermometers for the mouth or ear work well. Or use a contactless forehead thermometer.
• Age 65 years and older. Use a mouth or ear thermometer. Do not use any type of forehead thermometer.

Talk with your healthcare professional about what may be right for you or your child.