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Q: My child's fever won't drop below 38°C even with medication, peaking at 39.4°C. With no other symptoms, could this be COVID or the flu?

  • Myeongchan Kim
  • May 19
  • 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 child's fever is not dropping below 38°C even after taking a fever reducer. The temperature generally stays around 39°C, peaking at 39.4°C and dropping only to 38°C at the lowest. It has been less than 12 hours since the fever started, so the clinic told us to wait until tomorrow to get tested for COVID-19 and the flu.


Is there a high probability that this is COVID-19 or the flu? There are no other symptoms like a runny nose or cough. The only thing is that my child plays well for a little bit but then gets tired and wants to lie down, which I assume is because of the fever.


Answer:

I understand how worrisome it can be when a child's fever remains above 38°C despite taking antipyretics, especially when high fever is the only symptom.


Current Situation Assessment:

  • It is actually quite common for a fever to remain between 38°C and 39°C even after giving fever-reducing medication.

  • The primary goal of fever reducers is not to completely eliminate the fever and bring the temperature down to normal, but rather to relieve pain and make your child feel more comfortable.

  • The fact that your child is playing for a bit but then wanting to lie down is an expected response to the fatigue of having a fever and is not considered a medical emergency.


What You Can Do Now:

  1. Focus on Hydration: Offer small sips of water or electrolyte drinks every 10 to 15 minutes.

  2. Light Clothing: Dress your child in light, breathable clothing (e.g., a single thin layer of clothing).

  3. Room Temperature: Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, ideally around 24–26°C.

  4. Cross-Dosing: If the fever remains high and your child is uncomfortable, you can alternate between different active ingredients of fever reducers (such as Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen) every 3 to 4 hours.


⚠️ Visit the Emergency Room Immediately If:

  • Your child shows difficulty breathing or chest retractions (the chest pulling in with each breath).

  • Your child is excessively lethargic, has altered consciousness, or cannot answer simple questions.

  • There has been no urine output for more than 8 hours.

  • You notice a new rash or purple spots on the skin.


Regarding COVID-19 and the Flu:

While it is possible that the fever is caused by COVID-19 or the flu, it could also be a standard viral infection. Testing after 12 to 24 hours of fever onset yields much more accurate results, so it is medically appropriate to wait for the test.


As long as your child is drinking fluids, playing occasionally, and urinating normally, you do not need to panic right now. Please proceed with the medical evaluation and testing tomorrow morning as advised by your doctor. Until then, continue to monitor the symptoms and focus on keeping your child hydrated and comfortable.



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








 
 
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