top of page
Search

Q: My 18-month-old has RSV with a mild fever of 37.9°C but is in good condition. Should I give fever reducers?

  • Myeongchan Kim
  • 3 hours ago
  • 3 min read

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:

Hello! I received a call from daycare on Friday afternoon that my 18-month-old baby had a fever of 38°C. The temperature dropped to 37.5°C during nap time, so I didn't give any fever medicine. Because the daycare teacher was recently diagnosed with Influenza A, I took my baby to the clinic just in case. The doctor confirmed it was not the flu, but rather the RSV virus, and warned me that the fever could get high.


When we got home, the fever reached 38.2°C, so I administered a fever reducer. Since early this morning and throughout the day, the temperature has been fluctuating between 37.8°C and 37.9°C. My baby has a wet cough with phlegm and a runny nose, but overall is in great condition and eating well. Because of this, I put my baby to sleep without any fever medicine.


In this case, should I still give a fever reducer? If my baby's condition remains good, is it better to just observe until the fever hits 38°C again?


Answer:

Hello! I understand your 18-month-old has been diagnosed with RSV.


To summarize the current situation: your child is maintaining a mild fever (37.8–37.9°C), is in good condition, eating well, but experiencing a wet cough and runny nose.


Here are the general guidelines for administering fever reducers:

  • Temperature under 38°C + good condition = No fever reducer is needed.

  • When to give medication = Administer if your child seems uncomfortable, is in pain, or if the fever exceeds 38.5°C.

  • Remember: Your child's overall condition and behavior are much more important than the exact number on the thermometer. You did the right thing by letting your baby sleep without medication since they were comfortable.


Here are some tips for managing RSV at home:

  1. Hydration: Encourage frequent fluid intake (such as water or warm decaffeinated tea).

  2. Humidity: Use a humidifier to maintain a comfortable indoor humidity level of 40–60%.

  3. Nasal Care: If your baby has a stuffy nose, use sterile saline drops followed by a nasal aspirator.

  4. Sleeping Position: Elevate your baby's upper body slightly while they sleep to help them breathe easier.


When to visit the hospital immediately:

Please seek immediate medical attention if you observe any of the following signs:

  • Breathing becomes rapid, labored, or difficult.

  • Chest retractions (the skin pulls in around the ribs or neck with each breath).

  • Feeding or fluid intake drops to less than half of their normal amount.

  • There is no urination (no wet diapers) for 8 hours or more.


RSV symptoms can sometimes peak and worsen around the 3rd to 5th day of the illness. Since your baby is currently in good condition, you can safely continue to observe and care for them at home. However, please pay extra close attention to their breathing patterns over the next few days. You are managing the situation very well! Always consult your pediatrician for an in-person evaluation if your baby's symptoms persist or if you have any concerns about their breathing.


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







🌐 Also available in: Español · 한국어

 
 
bottom of page