Q: My child had Influenza A 12 days ago, but suddenly has a fever again and vomited after coughing. Should we go to the ER?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- Jul 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 21
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 Influenza A 12 days ago. They have had a severe cough and phlegm since the beginning. Although it improved slightly, the cough has remained quite severe. Now, 12 days later, my child has suddenly developed a fever again. Tonight, right before bed, they coughed so hard that they vomited. Our regular pediatrician's office is closed tomorrow. What should I do? Should I take them to the emergency room right now? Please help.
Answer:
I understand you must be very concerned that your child suddenly has a fever again 12 days after being diagnosed with the flu.
[What to check right now]
• If your child is having difficulty breathing (e.g., the skin pulling in below the ribs, nasal flaring, wheezing) or if their lips turn blue → Go to the emergency room immediately.
• If they cannot keep any liquids down or have not urinated for more than 8 hours → Go to the emergency room today.
• If they complain of chest pain or are so lethargic that it is difficult to wake them up → Go to the emergency room immediately.
[If the above symptoms are absent, and your child is awake and drinking small amounts of fluids]
→ Plan to visit another pediatrician or an urgent care clinic tomorrow morning.
Since there is a possibility of a secondary bacterial infection following the flu (such as pneumonia, ear infection, or sinus infection), a proper medical evaluation by a doctor is necessary.
[Home care for tonight]
• Offer a sip or two of water every 5 to 10 minutes to maintain hydration.
• Have your child sleep with their upper body slightly elevated (this is safer in case of further coughing or vomiting).
• If the fever is making them uncomfortable, you can administer an appropriate over-the-counter fever reducer.
• After they vomit, let their stomach rest for 30 minutes to an hour before slowly reintroducing very small sips of fluids.
[What to tell the doctor tomorrow]
When you see a doctor, make sure to clearly state: "The fever returned 12 days after a flu diagnosis, the cough has been persistent, and there was an episode of vomiting."
Please monitor your child closely tonight. If any signs of breathing difficulty, continuous vomiting, or decreased consciousness occur during the night, go to the nearest emergency room right away.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
