Fever is vital in acute infectious disease management, particularly for those without effective therapeutics. In spite of this, the prevalent myths about "fevers" and the confusing guidelines from different agencies that were boosted during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could prevent whole populations from benefiting from fever. 

It is concerning that guidelines suggest antipyresis for 37.8-39°C fevers because 39°C increases protective heat shock and immune responses (humoral, cell-mediated, and nutritional), whereas 40°C initiates/enhances antiviral responses and restricts high-temperature adapted pathogens, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza strains, and measles. Thus, urgent attention is needed to address the situation because of the potential public health consequences of conflicting guidelines in the public domain. 

The failure to do so would further aggravate the situation causing increased morbidity and mortality from different infectious diseases. 

Unwarranted antipyresis may promote increased pathogen transmission rates, complications, hospitalization, and associated deaths. Awareness campaigns are needed to dispel the myths and misconceptions surrounding fever and promote evidence-based fever management practices for the public good.

Singh S, Kishore D, Singh RK. Potential for Further Mismanagement of Fever During COVID-19 Pandemic: Possible Causes and Impacts. Front Med (Lausanne). 2022 Mar 2;9:751929. Doi: 10.3389/fmed.2022.751929. PMID: 35308547; PMCID: PMC8924660.