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Why do you get a fever when you're sick? - Christian Moro

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There are many mysteries around fever, but we do know that all mammals, some birds and even a few invertebrate and plant species feel fever’s heat. It has persisted for over 600 million years of evolution. But it has a significant cost: for every degree increase in temperature, there’s a 12.5% increase in energy required. So, why and how does your body produce a fever? Christian Moro investigates.

Malaria, spread by mosquitos, is a fever-inducing illness. Are there any other common diseases that can result in high fevers?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Christian Moro
  • Director Igor Coric
  • Narrator Addison Anderson
  • Sound Designer Stephen LaRosa
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Editorial Producer Cella Wright
  • Script Editor Emma Bryce
  • Fact-Checker Eden Girma

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