Q: My 17-month-old baby's fever won't drop and just spiked to 39.4°C. Should we go to the ER?

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 17-month-old baby's fever isn't going down. It started yesterday at dawn at 38.3°C. Even after taking a fever reducer, it stayed around 38°C. We went to the clinic, and the doctor said my baby has a sore throat and nasal congestion, so we got some prescribed medication.

Earlier, my baby's condition was fine—eating meals and snacks well. However, right now, their condition is just so-so. They ate dinner as usual, but the fever reducer only brings the temperature down to about 38°C.

It just spiked to 39.4°C, so I gave another dose of the fever reducer. Should we go to the emergency room?

Answer:

I understand how worried you must be, especially since your 17-month-old baby has had a high fever for two days and it recently spiked to 39.4°C.

Current Situation Assessment:

• High fever of 39.4°C + minimal effect from fever reducers

• Decline in overall condition (saying their condition is "just so-so" is an important detail)

• Still maintaining food intake

• Already examined by a doctor and currently taking prescribed medication

Please check the following right now:

1. Is their breathing rough or faster than normal?

2. Are there any rashes or red spots on their body?

3. Is their neck stiff, or do they have trouble bending their head down?

4. Are they much more lethargic than usual or slow to respond?

→ Go to the Emergency Room if: Any of the above symptoms are present, the fever reaches 40°C or higher, or if there has been no urine output for over 8 hours.

→ You can observe at home if: None of the above symptoms are present, and the baby is drinking water/fluids and urinating normally.

What you can do right now:

• Dress the baby lightly (just a diaper is OK).

• Maintain an indoor temperature of 24-26°C.

• Give small sips of water every 10-15 minutes.

• Alternate fever reducers (cross-dose between Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen at 3-hour intervals).

If the fever stays above 38°C until the morning, please visit the clinic again for a re-examination.

If your parental intuition tells you that the baby is "acting differently than usual," do not hesitate and go to the emergency room immediately!

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