Q: My 10-month-old baby with COVID-19 is refusing solids and slightly vomiting. Should we go for IV fluids?
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 recently tested positive for COVID-19. Last night at 8 PM, the baby took 160 ml of milk, and the overnight diaper had about 2-3 urinations. Today at 10:20 AM, the baby took another 160 ml of milk. However, the baby is completely refusing all solid foods, including purees. I tried giving a baby rice cracker; the baby took one bite, gagged, and threw up a little bit. Should I continue to monitor the baby at home, or should we go to the hospital to get IV fluids?
Answer:
It must be very exhausting to constantly monitor your baby while they are sick. Based on your description, your 10-month-old baby is maintaining their milk intake (160 ml last night + 160 ml this morning) and had nighttime urination, though daytime urination is currently unclear. It is also completely normal for a sick baby to refuse solids and have a minor gagging or vomiting episode.
🔴 Red Flags Requiring a Same-Day Pediatrician Visit
If any of the following occur, your baby needs an in-person medical evaluation today:
• No urination for more than 8 hours (the diaper is much lighter than usual).
• Lips or tongue appear dry, or the baby cries without tears.
• The baby is lethargic and makes less eye contact than usual.
• Vomiting is repeated, or the baby starts refusing milk entirely.
• Breathing becomes fast (over 50 breaths per minute) or the chest retracts (sucks in) under the ribs while breathing.
What You Should Do at Home Right Now:
Monitor Urination: Check the weight and color of the next diaper. If there is no urine for 6–8 hours, contact a doctor immediately.
Prioritize Milk Over Solids: Do not force solid foods. Offer formula or breast milk in small, frequent amounts (30–50 ml every 1–2 hours).
Manage Vomiting: If the baby throws up, let them rest for 30 minutes. Then, start by giving 1–2 teaspoons of water. If they tolerate that well, you can resume feeding milk.
Temporarily Stop Solid Foods: Put off giving rice crackers or purees for a few days and focus strictly on keeping the baby hydrated with liquids.
Hospital Visit vs. Home Observation:
• Visit the clinic today: If you notice any of the red flags mentioned above, or if you are highly concerned about dehydration and want peace of mind. Please call your pediatrician first. Keep in mind that the doctor will need to evaluate your baby in person to determine if IV fluids are actually necessary.
• Observe at home: If the baby is urinating, continuing to drink milk, making eye contact, and responding well to you, it is safe to monitor them at home for another day while focusing heavily on hydration.
Continue to keep a close eye on your baby's urine output and milk intake today, and please seek an in-person evaluation with your pediatrician if symptoms worsen or if you are ever in doubt.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
