Q: My child has had a fever from COVID-19 for 6 days and is taking ibuprofen twice a day. How many days is it safe to keep taking fever reducers?
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 child, who recently had a bone fracture, was just diagnosed with COVID-19. They have no respiratory symptoms, but their fever has been ongoing for 6 full days. We have been managing it by giving an ibuprofen-based fever reducer about twice a day. Is it safe to keep giving this medication for this many days?
Answer:
It must be very difficult dealing with a COVID-19 infection right after a bone fracture.
Here is a quick summary of your child's current situation:
• Confirmed COVID-19 with a fever lasting for 6 days.
• Taking an ibuprofen-based fever reducer twice a day.
• No respiratory symptoms.
How Long Can Fever Reducers Be Used?
Ibuprofen (and dexibuprofen) can generally be used for as many days as needed, provided you strictly adhere to the recommended dosage and time intervals. However, if a fever persists for more than 5 days or if the fever's pattern changes, a medical re-evaluation is required.
When to See a Doctor Today
If any of the following apply, please visit your pediatrician for an in-person checkup today:
• The fever reducer is losing its effectiveness or the fever is climbing higher.
• Your child is lethargic, eating poorly, or producing less urine than usual.
• New symptoms develop, such as coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
• There is worsening swelling, heat, or pain at the site of the bone fracture.
Home Care Tips
• Offer water or electrolyte drinks frequently in small, manageable sips.
• Dress your child in light, breathable clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
• Use fever reducers only when the child is clearly uncomfortable, as a fever is a natural immune response fighting the virus.
• Ensure the fractured area remains stable and rested.
COVID-19 Isolation & Return to Activities
• Your child can resume normal activities once their overall condition is improving and they have been completely fever-free for 24 hours without the use of any fever-reducing medications.
• For 5 days following their return to activities, they should wear a mask and avoid contact with high-risk individuals.
In conclusion, while the fever reducer itself is safe to continue using at the correct dosage, a fever lasting for 6 days requires medical attention. Please consult your pediatrician today to report your child's progress and determine if any additional medical evaluation or treatment is needed.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
