Q: Flu diagnosed and treated with IV, but my child still has a high fever on day 6. What should I do?

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 twins were both diagnosed with the flu and received IV treatment. The older twin had a fever for two more days and recovered, but the younger twin is still experiencing a fever four days after the treatment. The temperature spikes to 39°C at dawn and in the morning, and it even reached 40°C on the third day (the spikes happen mostly at night or dawn, while daytime temperatures stay around 37.8°C to 38°C). Since the fever originally started on Sunday, my younger twin has actually been running a fever for six days now. What additional tests should be done? I am very worried because we previously had a situation where one child was hospitalized for 10 days due to pneumonia.

Answer:

It must be very worrying to see your child continue to have a high fever for six days after a flu diagnosis, especially given your past experience with a pneumonia hospitalization.

While a fever from the flu typically lasts longer than a regular cold, your younger child's current situation requires close medical attention:

[Current Situation Assessment]

• Having a fever for 4 to 5 days with the flu is common, but a high fever of 39–40°C on the 6th day requires a medical re-evaluation.

• Spiking a high fever only at dawn or night can be a typical flu pattern, but the duration is becoming unusually prolonged.

• Since the fever is persisting even after IV treatment, the possibility of a secondary infection must be investigated.

[Immediate Hospital Visit Recommended]

Please visit a pediatrician promptly. They may recommend the following evaluations:

• Chest X-ray: To check for complications like pneumonia.

• Blood test: To check for any secondary bacterial infections.

• Urine test: To check for dehydration or other underlying infections.

[When to go to the Emergency Room]

Seek immediate emergency medical care if you observe any of the following:

• The child's breathing becomes rapid, labored, or difficult.

• The child refuses to drink fluids and has not urinated for more than 8 hours.

• The child is lethargic, their consciousness is blurry, or they are difficult to wake up.

Pneumonia is a common complication that can follow the flu. Given your family's previous history with pneumonia, extra caution is absolutely necessary. Please ensure your child is examined by a doctor today; if it is the weekend or after regular clinic hours, please take your child to the emergency room for a proper evaluation.

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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