Q: My 6-year-old child has Influenza A and a persistent high fever up to 40.7°C. Should we go back to the hospital for a fever-reducing injection?

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 6-year-old child was diagnosed with Influenza A. The fever started yesterday afternoon, and today around noon, we received the flu diagnosis and the child was given IV fluids at the clinic. However, the fever is not dropping below 38°C and is spiking up to 40.7°C. My child is experiencing chills, is very lethargic, and has completely lost their appetite. We are currently giving oral fever reducers every 4 hours. In this case, should we go back to the hospital to get an antipyretic (fever-reducing) injection?

Answer:

It is completely understandable to be highly concerned when your child continues to experience a severe fever even after being diagnosed and treated for the flu.

Understanding the Current Situation

Currently, your child has had a fever for about 24 hours, has confirmed Influenza A, and has started treatment (likely including antiviral medication via IV). Despite taking oral fever reducers every 4 hours, they are experiencing high fevers (38–40.7°C), chills, extreme lethargy, and a loss of appetite.

During the first 1 to 2 days of a flu infection, it is quite common for a high fever to persist even after antiviral treatment has been administered. However, you must monitor your child closely for any warning signs.

When to Seek Immediate Emergency Care (ER)

Please take your child to the nearest emergency room immediately if you observe any of the following:

* Rapid breathing (over 40 breaths per minute) or if the chest/area below the ribs sinks in while breathing (retractions).

* Lips turning blue or extreme difficulty waking the child up.

* Signs of severe dehydration: no urine output for more than 8 hours, crying without tears, or a severely dry mouth.

When to Seek a Same-Day Re-evaluation (Urgent Care/Pediatrician)

You should have your child seen by a doctor today if:

* The fever does not drop at all despite medication and the child remains excessively floppy and unresponsive.

* They complain of severe ear pain, throat pain, chest pain, or begin wheezing.

* Severe vomiting or diarrhea prevents them from keeping even small amounts of water down.

What to Do at Home Right Now

1. Hydration is Key: Give your child one or two sips of water, an electrolyte drink, or warm broth every 5–10 minutes. Continuously monitor the color and frequency of their urine.

2. Verify Medication Dosage: Ensure you are giving the correct dose of Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen based on your child's exact weight, not just their age. Check the concentration on the medicine bottle (mg/mL) to calculate the correct volume.

3. Manage the Environment: Dress the child in light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable, slightly cool temperature. Avoid using wet towels or giving lukewarm baths right now, as this can worsen their chills.

4. Monitor and Record: Keep a log of their fever patterns, urine output, breathing rate, and overall responsiveness.

Regarding Fever-Reducing Injections

Intramuscular fever-reducing injections are generally not recommended in this scenario. Their effectiveness is not significantly different from properly dosed oral medications. Furthermore, injections carry the risk of pain at the injection site and can sometimes cause a temporary spike in fever. Administering oral fever reducers at accurate dosages and at regular intervals is the preferred and safer approach.

Next Steps and Follow-up

If the high fever persists for more than 48 hours, your child will need to be re-evaluated by a doctor to rule out secondary bacterial infections, such as an ear infection or pneumonia.

To summarize: While high fevers are very common in the early stages of the flu, please seek an in-person medical evaluation today if you notice any signs of breathing difficulties, dehydration, or extreme lethargy. Otherwise, prioritize accurate doses of oral fever reducers and consistent hydration at home rather than seeking an antipyretic injection. Consult your pediatrician or visit an urgent care center if symptoms persist or if you remain uncertain about your child's clinical status.

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