Is it okay to go outside with fever? Surprising answer
Can you go out when you have a fever? (photo: freepik)
When we come down with a cold or the flu, one of the first symptoms is often a fever. This raises a logical question: even when you're feeling unwell, is it okay to step outside and get some fresh air?
Fever is a signal from the body
First of all, it’s important to understand that a high temperature isn’t a disease in itself, but a defensive reaction of the body. This is how the immune system fights off infection-causing agents—viruses or bacteria. During this process, the body uses a lot of energy and becomes weakened.
Risks for you and others
Going outside with a fever puts both yourself and those around you at risk:
Spreading infection
If your fever is caused by a viral or bacterial infection (which is most often the case), you are a carrier. Walking in public places and coming into contact with people—even briefly—puts others at risk of infection. This is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. Social responsibility requires that you stay home while you are ill.
Worsening your condition
Even a light walk is a strain on a weakened body. Physical activity, temperature fluctuations, wind, or humidity can worsen how you feel, increase symptoms (fatigue, headache, body aches), and even lead to complications. Your body needs rest to effectively fight the infection.
Risk of fainting or dizziness
Fever, weakness, and dehydration (if you're not drinking enough) can cause dizziness, nausea, or even fainting during a walk. This creates dangerous situations, especially if you're far from home.
What to do instead of walking?
If you have a fever, the best choice is to stay home. Make sure to:
Get bed rest or keep physical activity to a minimum
Give your body the strength it needs to fight.
Drink plenty of fluids
Water, tea, and fruit drinks help prevent dehydration and flush out toxins.
Ventilate the room
Air out the room regularly, but avoid drafts.
Eat nutritious meals
Eat light, nourishing food if you have an appetite.
Consult a doctor
If the fever is high, persists for a long time, or your condition worsens, be sure to seek medical advice.
When can you go outside after being sick?
You can return to normal life, including going for walks, only when your temperature has normalized and stays within the normal range (without fever-reducing medications) for at least 24 hours, and your overall condition has significantly improved. Start with short, slow walks and gradually increase their duration.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
