Q: My child has Influenza A and a fever of 39.8°C. Is it safe to alternate Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen now?
- Myeongchan Kim
- May 28
- 2 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 child was diagnosed with Influenza A yesterday, and their fever keeps fluctuating. It just reached 39.8°C. I gave 7cc of Ibuprofen at 11:29 AM and 7cc of Acetaminophen at 3:41 AM. Is it safe to alternate the medications and give another dose right now?
Answer:
Yes, it is safe to alternate the medications now! Please don't worry.
Based on the timeline you provided, enough time has passed since the previous doses. You can safely give the next dose of Ibuprofen right now. Moving forward, ensure you wait at least 4 hours between doses of the same medication (like Acetaminophen).
Managing Influenza A High Fevers:
A temperature of 39.8°C is a very common high fever associated with the flu. Alternating fever reducers is an effective way to help lower it:
• Ibuprofen: Can be given every 6 to 8 hours (maximum 4 times a day).
• Acetaminophen: Can be given every 4 to 6 hours (maximum 5 times a day).
• When alternating, always keep a 2 to 3-hour interval between the two different types of medications.
Additional Care Tips:
• Have your child sip water frequently to prevent dehydration.
• Dress them in light, breathable clothing to help heat escape.
• If your doctor prescribed an antiviral medication (like Tamiflu), make sure to administer it consistently as directed.
High fevers from the flu can typically last for 3 to 5 days. You are doing a great job managing the alternating schedule, so continue to monitor your child's condition closely.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care:
Please go to the nearest emergency room if your child experiences:
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Confusion, lethargy, or altered consciousness
• Signs of severe dehydration (no tears, dry mouth, no urine output for hours)
• Seizures
If the fever persists beyond a few days, or if you are ever unsure about your child's symptoms, please visit your pediatrician for an 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.
