Q: My 13-month-old baby has a high fever again days after vaccination. Should we go to the ER 2 hours away?

Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, 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 13-month-old baby has a fever. Last week, they received the Japanese Encephalitis and Influenza A vaccinations. A fever started that evening, reaching up to 39.2°C, and lasted for about four days before completely going away with no other symptoms. However, today the fever suddenly spiked to 39.5°C.

Since the fever first started last week, their food intake has decreased to about two-thirds of normal, but they are playing well and do not seem lethargic. A few days ago, their older sister caught a severe cold with a very stuffy nose and a mild fever, though she recovered quickly.

We are currently visiting family out of town for the holidays, and the nearest emergency room is a 2-hour drive away. I only have Ibuprofen with me. Should we pack up and go back home to monitor the situation?

Answer:

It sounds like your 13-month-old baby is experiencing recurrent fevers after vaccination. Since the fever lasted for 3-4 days after the vaccination, subsided for a few days, and has now spiked again to 39.5°C, it is highly likely due to a new infection.

Current situation evaluation:

• Vaccination reactions usually resolve within 48-72 hours.

• The older sister had a cold a few days ago → high probability of transmission.

• Since your baby is playing well and has only slightly reduced their eating, there is no immediate need to visit the emergency room.

What you should do immediately:

1. Ibuprofen dosage: For a 13-month-old (approx. 10kg) → 2.5-5ml (please verify the concentration of the medicine).

2. Administer every 4-6 hours, up to a maximum of 4 times a day.

3. Dress the baby in light clothing and provide fluids frequently.

4. Keep a record of their temperature and any behavioral changes.

⚠️ Go to the emergency room immediately if:

• There is no urination for more than 8 hours.

• The baby becomes severely lethargic and unresponsive.

• There is difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.

• You notice a rash or purple spots on the skin.

• Fever reducers have absolutely no effect.

There seems to be no need to return to your own home right now. Monitor your baby while managing the fever with Ibuprofen. If any of the warning signs above appear, depart for the ER immediately, even if it is a 2-hour drive away. Most colds improve within 3-5 days.

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

https://fevercoach.us