Q: My child was exposed to the flu, has a severe cough, and just developed a fever. Should we see a doctor 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:

Hello, my child played on Sunday with another child who was diagnosed with the flu today. Yesterday and today, my child has been coughing all day. We visited a hospital earlier today, and the doctor thought it wasn't the flu yet because there was no fever. They prescribed cough and allergy medications and suggested using a nebulizer if the cough worsens.

My child has postnasal drip, a clear runny nose, and coughs so hard they hold their stomach. Shortly after falling asleep, they vomited food and a lot of phlegm. The nebulizer helped reduce the cough significantly, and they are sleeping now.

However, a fever started after the hospital visit (at 4 PM and again past 10 PM, accompanied by chills). When I called the hospital, they told me to come in on Thursday for a flu test. Since I'm worried about bronchitis and my child isn't on antibiotics, is it safe to just use the nebulizer and wait until Thursday, or should we see another doctor tomorrow?

Answer:

Hello. You must be very worried since your child is coughing and has now developed a fever.

To summarize the current situation: your child has a known flu exposure, is experiencing a cough, runny nose, and phlegm, had two fever spikes today (accompanied by chills), and the cough improved after using a nebulizer.

I strongly recommend taking your child to see a doctor tomorrow rather than waiting until Thursday. Here is why:

1. High possibility of the flu: Given the known exposure to a confirmed flu case and the new onset of fever, there is a high likelihood that your child has contracted the flu.

2. Timing of treatment: Antiviral medications for the flu are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.

3. Risk of bacterial infection: A fever accompanied by chills can sometimes indicate a bacterial infection, such as bacterial bronchitis.

For tonight's care management:

• Alternate different types of fever reducers (cross-dosing) if the fever goes above 38.5°C (101.3°F).

• Use the nebulizer every 4-6 hours to help with the cough.

• Encourage frequent fluid intake to keep them hydrated.

• Have your child sleep with their upper body slightly elevated to reduce postnasal drip and coughing.

🚨 Go to the emergency room immediately if you notice:

• Shortness of breath or abnormally rapid breathing.

• Chest retractions (the skin caving in around the ribs or neck while breathing).

• Decreased consciousness or severe lethargy.

• Complete refusal to drink fluids.

Please do not wait until Thursday. See a pediatrician or visit a clinic early tomorrow morning. If it is the flu, antiviral treatment needs to begin quickly, and if it is bacterial bronchitis, your child may require antibiotics.

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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