Q: My child got an IV treatment for Influenza A but still has a 39.1°C fever. Can I give fever reducers and alternate them?

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 was recently diagnosed with Influenza A and received an IV antiviral treatment at the clinic. However, the fever is still persisting at 39.1°C (102.4°F). Can I give them a fever reducer right away? Also, is it okay to alternate between different types of fever reducers?

Answer:

It is completely understandable to be worried when a fever persists even after your child has received a flu diagnosis and treatment.

You can use a fever reducer right away.

If your child is uncomfortable with a fever of 39.1°C, you can give them a fever reducer (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen) right now. It is perfectly safe to use fever reducers alongside influenza antiviral medications, whether they were given via IV or orally.

Guidelines for alternating fever reducers:

• Only consider alternating medications if a single type of fever reducer is not sufficient to manage the fever and relieve discomfort.

• Allow a minimum interval of 2 to 3 hours between a dose of acetaminophen and a dose of ibuprofen.

• You must strictly observe the specific dosing intervals for each medication (every 4 to 6 hours for acetaminophen; every 6 to 8 hours for ibuprofen) as well as their maximum daily limits.

• If managing two medications becomes confusing, it is much safer to stick to using just one medication regularly.

What to expect with a flu fever:

Even after administering antiviral medication, it is normal for a fever to last for another 2 to 3 days. The most important factor is your child's overall condition. Please closely monitor their fluid intake, urine output, breathing, and level of alertness.

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• Difficulty breathing or the skin under the ribs pulling in with each breath (retractions).

• No urine output for 8 hours or more.

• The child is unusually difficult to wake up or is slow to respond.

• The fever lasts for more than 3 days without dropping, or it goes away and then suddenly spikes again.

• Chest pain, persistent vomiting, or a severe headache.

You are doing a great job caring for your child. Continue to offer fluids frequently to keep them hydrated. If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above, please contact your prescribing doctor immediately or visit a local urgent care clinic or emergency room if it is after regular hours.

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

🌐 Also available in: Español · 한국어