Q: My 5-year-old has vomiting, fever, and diarrhea after drinking school milk. Should I stop feeding him?

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Question:

My 5-year-old son became lethargic last night and didn't want to eat dinner. He vomited twice, once in the evening and once overnight, and had a high fever of 39°C (102.2°F). After giving him a fever reducer and some medicine, the vomiting stopped, and he says his stomach feels fine now. He had a few normal bowel movements but then started having diarrhea. I suspect it might be from some milk he had at school. He is now saying he's hungry. Should I feed him something like porridge, or is it better to let him fast for a meal or two?

Answer:

It sounds like your 5-year-old son is dealing with vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. Given that the symptoms started after he drank milk at school, acute gastroenteritis is the likely cause.

【Current Status Assessment】

• Vomiting: 2 times last night → has now stopped

• Fever: 39°C (102.2°F) → being managed with a fever reducer

• Diarrhea: Started today (after 3 normal bowel movements)

• General Condition: No abdominal pain, feels comfortable, complaining of hunger

【What to Do Immediately】

1. Hydration is the most important thing.

→ Offer an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) or an electrolyte drink in small sips every 5-10 minutes.

→ Give about 30-50ml (1-1.7 oz) slowly at a time.

2. Do not make him fast.

→ It's better to offer small amounts of his usual food rather than just porridge.

→ Think of foods like bananas, toast, plain rice, and boiled eggs.

→ Avoid greasy foods and dairy products for 2-3 days.

【When You See a Doctor】

• Assess the level of dehydration.

• Discuss the need for a stool test.

• Determine if antibiotics are necessary.

⚠️ Go to the Emergency Room if:

• He has not urinated for more than 8 hours.

• His lips are dry, or he cries without tears.

• He is severely lethargic or has a decreased level of consciousness.

• He has bloody stools or severe abdominal pain.

It's a good sign that your child is hungry. Focus on hydration and give him small, frequent amounts of digestible food. Most cases of gastroenteritis improve within 2-3 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