Q: My 8-year-old has had a mild fever (37.8-37.9°C) for 10 days despite taking antibiotics. Should we go to a specialty hospital for tests or return to our current clinic?

Myeongchan Kim
7 hours ago
3 min read

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 has had a mild fever for about 10 days. Initially, there was a mild fever and a stuffy nose. We visited a local clinic, and the doctor noted post-nasal drip, nasal swelling, and a swollen throat. They prescribed medication, including antibiotics, which my child has been taking for 10 days. (We went back for a follow-up midway, and the doctor said the throat inflammation was still present and the nasal mucus had become thicker.)

Now, the stuffy nose and other symptoms are gone, leaving only a slight amount of phlegm and a persistent mild fever. My child's normal body temperature is usually around 37.3~37.5°C, but it has been hovering between 37.8~37.9°C for the past ten days.

I am unsure what to do next. Should we go to a specialty hospital to get an X-ray or a blood test, or should we go back to the clinic we have been visiting?

Answer:

It is completely understandable that you are worried about your child's mild fever persisting for ten days.

Current Situation Summary:

Your 8-year-old child has been on treatment, including antibiotics, for 10 days. The nasal congestion and runny nose have improved, but throat inflammation was still present at the last check-up, and a mild fever (37.8~37.9°C) with slight phlegm remains.

Reassurance Points:

If there are no "red flag" danger signs—such as difficulty breathing, cyanosis (bluish skin/lips), severe lethargy, refusal to drink fluids, or decreased urination—an immediate trip to the emergency room is not necessary.
The prolonged mild fever could be due to a slow response to the antibiotics, a concurrent viral infection, or, less commonly, an atypical bacterial infection (such as Mycoplasma).

Recommended Steps for Today:

Contact Your Current Pediatrician First: Call the clinic and explain, "My child has been on antibiotics for 10 days, but the mild fever continues. Is a re-evaluation necessary?" The doctor will examine your child and determine if additional tests (like a chest X-ray or blood test) are needed.
Prepare a Symptom Log: Write down your child's morning and evening temperatures, the color and amount of phlegm, their appetite and activity levels, and the names and doses of the medications they are taking. Bring this to the appointment.
Home Care: Ensure your child stays well-hydrated with water or warm broths. Maintain indoor humidity between 40-60%. Help clear the phlegm by offering warm drinks and gently patting their back.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Evaluation:

Seek same-day evaluation at your pediatrician, or visit an urgent care facility if it is after hours, if your child develops any of the following:

The fever spikes to 38.5°C or higher.
They show signs of breathing difficulty or chest retractions (the chest sinking in when breathing).
They become severely lethargic or refuse to play.
There is no urine output for more than 8 hours.
There is blood mixed in the phlegm, or noticeable weight loss occurs.

Regarding Tests and Hospital Transfers:

If you go to a larger, specialty hospital first, they will have to evaluate your child from the beginning without the context of their recent medical history, which can cost more time and money. It is best to visit your current pediatrician. If they determine that the response to the current antibiotics is insufficient, they will either perform the necessary chest X-rays and blood tests themselves or refer you directly to an ENT or respiratory specialist.

In summary, as long as there are no severe danger signs, please schedule a follow-up visit with your current pediatrician so they can assess your child's progress and decide on the next best clinical steps.

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