Q: My child was diagnosed with Influenza B today after getting antibiotics for a throat inflammation yesterday. Should we take both?
- Myeongchan Kim
- May 27
- 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:
Yesterday morning, my child had a fever around 38°C. We visited a clinic, were told it was a throat inflammation, and received a prescription for antibiotics. In the afternoon, they complained of a headache, so I gave a pain reliever, and the fever went down. However, this morning the fever returned to around 38°C. We went back to the clinic, got tested, and my child was diagnosed with Influenza B. We received oral flu medication. Do I still need to give the antibiotics prescribed yesterday? The clinic was very crowded, so I completely forgot to ask the doctor.
Answer:
It must have been a stressful couple of days dealing with the persistent fever.
Here is a summary of your current situation:
• Yesterday: Diagnosed with throat inflammation → Antibiotics prescribed
• Today: Confirmed Influenza B → Antiviral medication (e.g., Tamiflu) prescribed
Regarding whether to continue the antibiotics:
Influenza is a viral infection, meaning antibiotics are not directly effective against the flu itself. However, you should continue taking the antibiotics if any of the following apply:
• The throat inflammation was suspected to be a bacterial infection (such as purulent tonsillitis).
• There are accompanying bacterial complications, such as an ear infection (otitis media) or a sinus infection (sinusitis).
Conversely, if the throat inflammation was very mild and the primary issue is solely the confirmed flu, the antiviral medication alone might be sufficient.
The Safest Approach:
Because a physical examination of the throat is required to determine the exact cause of the inflammation, the safest course of action is to call the clinic that diagnosed the flu today. You can simply ask: "My child was prescribed antibiotics for a throat inflammation yesterday. Should we take them alongside the flu medication?" Most clinics accept brief phone inquiries, and your local pharmacist can also provide guidance based on the specific prescriptions.
Home Care Instructions:
• Give the flu medication exactly as prescribed (usually completing a full 5-day course).
• Encourage frequent fluid intake, dress your child in light clothing, and ensure they get plenty of comfortable rest.
• If the fever or headache causes discomfort, you can give an additional fever reducer/pain reliever, making sure to follow the proper dosage and time intervals.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
Please take your child for immediate in-person evaluation if you notice any of the following:
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
• Severe dehydration (e.g., no urination for over 8 hours).
• Decreased consciousness, lethargy, seizures, or persistent vomiting.
• High fever continuing for more than 3 days, or if overall symptoms worsen.
In summary, ensure your child takes the flu medication exactly as directed, and please call your clinic to confirm whether the antibiotics are still necessary for their specific case.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
