Q: My child was diagnosed with the flu and received an IV treatment. Should we finish previously prescribed antibiotics even without cold symptoms?
- 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:
Yesterday, my child took medication, including antibiotics, without realizing they had the flu. Today, my child still had a mild fever, so we got a flu test. It came back positive, and my child received an IV treatment for the flu. Since we already had the existing medication at home, we didn't get a new prescription. However, I am wondering if we still need to finish the remaining antibiotics to prevent antibiotic resistance, even if the cold symptoms are gone.
Answer:
I understand your concern about managing your child's medications after a sudden flu diagnosis.
Core Recommendation: Stop the remaining antibiotics.
The flu is a viral illness, meaning antibiotics are completely ineffective against it. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily when you have a viral infection does not help and only increases the risk of side effects and antibiotic resistance.
What to Do Now:
Antiviral treatment is complete: Since your child received the flu IV treatment (such as Peramivir), the antiviral portion of their care has already been addressed.
Manage symptoms: You can continue to use the existing symptom-relief medications (like fever reducers or cough medicine) only if your child still needs them to stay comfortable.
Stop the antibiotics: Discontinue the antibiotic doses starting today.
Supportive care: Ensure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids. You can use fever reducers if the mild fever is causing discomfort.
Confirm with Your Doctor:
While antibiotics are generally stopped for a flu diagnosis, it is highly recommended to contact the prescribing doctor and explicitly ask, "Is it safe to stop the existing antibiotics?" If your child was originally prescribed antibiotics for an underlying or suspected bacterial infection (such as an ear infection or a sinus infection alongside the viral symptoms), the doctor will evaluate whether they should be continued.
Warning Signs (Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following):
High fever (39°C / 102.2°F or higher) lasting for more than 3 days.
Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Severe headache or repeated vomiting.
No urination for more than 8 hours.
Sudden lethargy, extreme weakness, or difficulty waking up.
Please verify the decision to stop the antibiotics with your child's pediatrician. Since the IV flu treatment has already been administered, your child's flu symptoms should begin to improve within the next 2 to 3 days. Ensure they rest well during this recovery period.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
