Final answer:
An ideal axillary temperature is generally around 97.6°F, which is slightly lower than the average normal oral body temperature of 98.6°F.
Step-by-step explanation:
An ideal axillary temperature is typically slightly lower than the average normal body temperature, which is 98.6°F (37.0°C) taken orally. Normal axillary (underarm) temperatures can be approximately 1°F (0.6°C) lower than oral temperatures. Therefore, an ideal axillary temperature would generally be around 97.6°F.
This reflects a common temperature for someone in a state of normal health, without any indications of fever, infection, or other medical conditions affecting body temperature. Variations in body temperature, both above and below this average, can be considered normal but can also suggest the presence of a health issue.
Your child has a fever if he or she: Has a rectal, ear or temporal artery temperature of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher. Has an oral temperature of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher. Has an armpit temperature of 99 F (37.2 C) or higher.