Q: My 10-month-old baby with COVID-19 has a high fever, occasional cyanosis, and won't eat. How do I give powdered medication?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 10-month-old baby has COVID-19 and a persistent fever that won't drop below 38°C, even when alternating fever reducers. My baby is refusing water and solid foods, and isn't finishing their formula. I have also noticed occasional cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin).
Furthermore, the hospital prescribed a fever reducer in powder form rather than a liquid. How should I administer this? I am currently mixing it with their other liquid medications, but how should I give the powder by itself if I run out of the liquid medicine?
Answer:
First and foremost, you need to monitor the cyanosis closely. If the bluish discoloration on the hands and feet does not improve after the fever drops, or if you notice the lips or fingernails turning blue, you must seek immediate emergency medical attention.
Additionally, since your baby is refusing water, solid foods, and formula, there is a high risk of dehydration. Monitor their wet diapers closely; if their urine output has significantly decreased, they need to be evaluated by a doctor.
If the situation is not an emergency and you just need to administer the medication, you can give the powdered fever reducer by mixing it with a small amount of water, sugar water, or pear juice to make it more palatable and easier for your baby to swallow.
However, given the persistent fever that isn't responding to medication, the poor oral intake, and the signs of cyanosis, please have your baby evaluated by a pediatrician as soon as possible to ensure they are safe and adequately hydrated.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
