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Q: My child was diagnosed with Influenza A and received an IV today. Can they get a second IV if their fever spikes again to 39.7°C?

  • Myeongchan Kim
  • 1 day 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:

My child started having a fever yesterday morning, fluctuating between 39°C and 40°C overnight. We visited the clinic today at 12 PM, where my child received an IV treatment for the fever and was diagnosed with Influenza A. However, their temperature has spiked again to 39.7°C. I just gave them oral fever medication, but I am wondering if I can take them back to the clinic this evening for a second IV drip. Should we just stay home and alternate different fever-reducing medications instead?


Answer:

It must be very stressful to deal with a sudden Influenza A diagnosis and such high fevers. Based on your situation, your child received an IV treatment (likely an antiviral medication) at noon, and you are considering a second one this evening.


Receiving two IV treatments in the same day is not typical.

Antiviral IV treatments for the flu are generally administered as a single dose per day. The decision to administer any additional IV fluids or medications must be made directly by the prescribing doctor after a medical evaluation.


What you can do at home right now:

  1. Alternate fever medications: You can cross-medicate by alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen (or dexibuprofen) with a 2 to 3-hour gap between the two different medications. Make sure to adhere to the safe intervals for each specific medication (4 to 6 hours for acetaminophen, 6 to 8 hours for ibuprofen) and do not exceed the maximum daily doses (5 times a day for acetaminophen, 4 times a day for ibuprofen). If this feels confusing, it is perfectly fine to stick to just one type of medication at its regular intervals.

  2. Hydrate frequently: Offer small sips of water every 5 to 10 minutes to prevent dehydration.

  3. Keep the environment comfortable: Dress your child in light, breathable clothing and maintain a comfortable room temperature. (Avoid wiping them with a wet towel or giving tepid baths, as this is no longer recommended).


When to visit the ER or seek urgent care:

If you notice any of the following danger signs, please visit the emergency room or an after-hours clinic immediately:

  • Difficulty breathing (flaring nostrils, chest sucking in under the ribs, or wheezing).

  • No urine output for over 8 hours.

  • Inability to drink any fluids accompanied by continuous vomiting.

  • Extreme lethargy, difficulty waking up, or inability to make eye contact.

  • Seizures or trembling in the arms and legs.


If none of the above danger signs are present, the fever responds at least slightly to oral medications, and your child is able to drink water, it is best to manage the fever at home tonight by alternating medications and visiting your pediatrician for a follow-up tomorrow during regular hours. If you feel an additional IV is urgently necessary, please contact the prescribing doctor or the hospital's on-call line for guidance before heading in.


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







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