Q: My 5-month-old has a 38.6°C fever after RSV exposure from an older sibling. Should we go to the ER or wait for a clinic tomorrow?

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 older child was recently diagnosed with RSV, though they didn't need hospitalization and just received medication. I took my 5-month-old baby to the doctor just in case. The doctor said their lungs, nose, and throat sounded fine, so we were only prescribed cough and phlegm medicine.

However, my 5-month-old's temperature has now spiked to 38.6°C. I have given them a fever reducer. Should we head to the emergency room right away, or is it better to wait and go to a children's clinic tomorrow? The cough isn't severe yet, but I am very worried it might suddenly get worse while we are waiting.

Answer:

It is completely understandable that you are worried, especially with your 5-month-old developing a 38.6°C fever right after your older child's RSV diagnosis.

Given the current situation—a 5-month-old with a high fever and known RSV exposure—very careful observation is required. How your baby responds to the fever reducer is a crucial indicator of their condition.

Go to the Emergency Room immediately if you observe any of the following danger signs:

• Nostril flaring when breathing

• Chest retractions (the skin sucking in between or below the ribs when breathing)

• Feeding amounts dropping to less than half of their normal intake

• No wet diapers for 8 hours or more

• Unusually lethargic, unresponsive, or floppy behavior

If none of the above severe symptoms are present, you can manage at home for now by doing the following:

• Check the baby's breathing every 2 to 3 hours overnight.

• Keep a written record of their temperature and feeding amounts.

• Turn on a humidifier to keep the air moist.

• Let the baby sleep with their upper body slightly elevated to help with breathing.

• Visit a pediatrician tomorrow morning for a thorough clinical evaluation.

Please keep in mind that 5-month-old infants are considered a high-risk group for RSV, and their condition can sometimes worsen rapidly. If you notice even the slightest sign of breathing difficulty, please do not hesitate and go to the emergency room immediately.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play

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