Q: My child got a fever again 2 days after being discharged from a 5-day flu hospitalization. Should we see a doctor?

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 child was diagnosed with the flu, hospitalized for 5 days for treatment, and then discharged. At the time of discharge, they only had a runny nose. They were perfectly fine for two days, but suddenly started having a fever this morning. The temperature drops when I give them fever reducers, but it seems to keep fluctuating up and down. Should we go back to the hospital tomorrow if the fever continues?

Answer:

It is completely understandable to be alarmed by a sudden fever right after your child has completed a 5-day hospital stay for the flu.

Current Situation Summary

A pattern where a child temporarily improves after flu treatment but develops a fever again a couple of days later suggests the possibility of a secondary bacterial infection (such as otitis media, pneumonia, or sinusitis) or a coinfection with another virus.

🚨 When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention (Go Today)

Please take your child to the doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or chest retractions (skin pulling in under the ribs).

• Extreme lethargy, constant sleeping, or an inability to make eye contact.

• No urine output for more than 8 hours or severely dry lips.

• Pulling at the ears and severe fussiness.

• Coughing up yellow or green phlegm, or complaining of chest pain.

What You Can Do at Home Now

• Fever Reducers: Administer the appropriate dose only when your child is uncomfortable (at 4 to 6-hour intervals). Your child's activity level and hydration status are much more important than the exact temperature.

• Hydration: Offer small sips of fluids frequently, about every 30 minutes.

• Observation Points: Monitor their frequency of urination, how comfortably they are breathing, and their willingness to play or eat.

When to Visit the Hospital Tomorrow

• The fever lasts for more than 24 hours or progressively worsens.

• Any of the red flag symptoms mentioned above appear.

• New symptoms develop, such as ear pain, a swollen throat, or a worsening cough.

It is highly recommended to call the hospital where your child was recently admitted and inform them about the "fever after discharge" so they can prepare for a quick reassessment. Based on the evaluation, the doctor may consider a chest X-ray or an ear examination.

Please watch your child closely tonight focusing on the observation points mentioned above. If the fever continues into tomorrow morning, make sure to visit your pediatrician or the hospital for a thorough in-person evaluation.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play