Q: My 8-year-old has a fever, chills, stuffy nose, and phlegm. Should we get a flu test?

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 8-year-old child came home yesterday afternoon complaining of a headache. I checked their temperature, and it was 38.3°C, so I gave them a fever reducer at 4:30 PM. Before bed, their temperature was 37.6°C, so I gave another dose at 9:00 PM. The fever went away but returned this morning at 38.5°C, so I gave them another dose at 6:00 AM. Current symptoms include phlegm, a stuffy nose, fever, and chills. Should we go to the hospital for a flu test? What should I do?

Answer:

You must be worried about your child's sudden high fever.

Current Situation Summary

Your 8-year-old is experiencing a headache, high fever (38.3–38.5°C), chills, nasal congestion, and phlegm that started yesterday afternoon. The fever temporarily drops with medication but then returns. This suggests a potential respiratory viral infection, including the flu (influenza).

Optimal Timing for a Flu Test

Antiviral treatments for the flu are most effective when testing and treatment are started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Since the symptoms began yesterday afternoon, you are currently at the 24-hour mark. Therefore, this afternoon or tomorrow morning is the optimal time to get a flu test. If your child belongs to a high-risk group (e.g., asthma, diabetes, weakened immune system) or if symptoms are severe, it is better to visit the clinic even sooner.

When to Visit a Pediatrician Today

Please visit a doctor today if your child experiences any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or chest retractions (chest sinking in while breathing).

• Drinking very little fluids or passing no urine for over 8 hours.

• Extreme lethargy, poor eye contact, or weak responses.

• Worsening headache or a stiff neck.

• Fever that lasts for more than 3 days, or if the fever reducers wear off too quickly.

What to Do at Home

• Hydration: Offer frequent, small amounts of water, electrolyte drinks, or warm broth.

• Environment: Dress your child in light, breathable clothing and keep the room temperature comfortable, around 20–22°C (68–71°F).

• Fever Management: Give fever reducers every 4–6 hours only if the child is uncomfortable. Please avoid tepid water sponging or ice packs.

• Stuffy Nose: Use a saline nasal spray and run a humidifier to maintain 40–60% indoor humidity.

• Phlegm: Encourage them to drink warm water frequently. Since your child is over 1 year old, giving 1 teaspoon of honey can also help soothe the throat.

When to Go to the Emergency Room

Go to the ER immediately if you notice:

• Severe difficulty breathing or bluish lips.

• The child is difficult to wake up or severely unresponsive.

• Severe headache accompanied by repeated vomiting and a stiff neck.

I highly recommend visiting a pediatrician this afternoon or tomorrow morning to have your child evaluated and tested for the flu. Keep them well-hydrated, ensure they get plenty of comfortable rest, and seek immediate emergency care if any of the danger signs mentioned above appear.

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