Is 98.5 a fever in a newborn?

This is a normal reading, not a fever. Since the baby is a newborn, just ensure proper breastfeeding for good immunity and hydration. Mother's milk is the absolute best nutrition to keep their body temperature stable and healthy.

It is totally normal, not a fever. Newborns have slightly higher baselines anyway. Unless it crosses 100.4 F, you really don't need to stress or run to the hospital.

When we went to Apollo for our baby's checkup, the doctor clearly said newborn fever is only 100.4 and above. Still, since they are very young, if you see them refusing milk or crying constantly, call your pediatrician once.

I faced this exact confusion with my firstborn and kept checking every hour. 98.5 is completely normal, so don't worry. Just check if you've wrapped them in too many swaddles or woolens, sometimes that raises temp a bit.

Agree with everyone here, 98.5 is absolutely normal. Just keep a close watch on their normal feeding and sleeping patterns.

No fever at all, please be peaceful. The baby is healthy and doing well. Just hold them close to your chest for skin-to-skin warmth, it naturally balances their energy and temperature beautifully.