Q: My child has had a fever for 3 days without other symptoms. Should we get a blood test today or wait?

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Question:

Hello, I am wondering if I should keep observing this fever. My child started having a mild fever on Friday afternoon, and the temperature went over 38°C starting early Saturday morning. On Sunday, both flu and COVID-19 tests came back negative. There is no coughing, runny nose, or sore throat; it is just a fever. We only received a fever reducer and cough/phlegm medicine from the doctor.

The temperature averages around 38.5°C, and it drops well when taking the fever reducer. When the fever goes up, my child feels cold and lethargic, but when it drops, their condition and energy improve. My question is, would it be better to get an X-ray and a blood test today, or should I wait and observe a bit longer? I am much more worried because there are no other cold symptoms besides the fever.

Answer:

Hello. The fever has been continuing for 3 days. I fully understand your concern about the situation where there is only a fever without other cold symptoms.

Current situation evaluation:

• Average 38.5°C, good response to fever reducers → Good

• Recovers condition when fever drops → Positive

• Flu/COVID-19 negative → Confirmed

• No cough/runny nose/sore throat symptoms → Specific note

When you should visit the hospital today:

→ Fever of 39.5°C or higher persists

→ Fever reducers lose effectiveness

→ Difficulty breathing

→ No urination for over 8 hours

→ Continuously lethargic and not playing

When you can observe until tomorrow:

→ Fever can be controlled with fever reducers

→ Plays and eats well when the fever drops

→ Good fluid intake

A fever lasting more than 3 days requires identifying the cause, so if there is no improvement by tomorrow (the 4th day), a blood test is recommended. The possibility of a urinary tract infection or other bacterial infections should also be checked.

Please ensure adequate fluid intake and rest tonight, and closely observe any changes in your child's condition.

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