Q: What happens if the flu goes untreated? My child had a fever for a day, but it broke. We didn't test for the flu. Is it okay if we missed it?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- Jul 12
- 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:
What happens if the flu goes untreated? My child had a high fever from Saturday morning until Sunday morning, but after that, the fever completely broke. Because the temperature dropped back to normal, we didn't end up getting a flu test. I am worried—what if it was actually the flu and we just let it pass without treatment? Is it okay to just leave it be now?
Answer:
It is completely understandable that you are worried about potentially missing the window for flu treatment. However, it is a great relief that the high fever only lasted for a day and has now subsided.
Even if your child did have the flu, here is what you need to know now that the fever has broken:
Most healthy children recover naturally from the flu without any special medical treatment.
Antiviral medications (such as Tamiflu) are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. If your child's condition is already improving, these medications are not strictly necessary.
The most important factor right now is your child's current clinical condition.
Please monitor your child at home and check the following: Are they breathing comfortably? Are they eating and drinking well? Are they playing as they usually do? If the answers are yes, you can continue to care for them at home.
However, you should visit a doctor or an emergency room immediately if you notice any of the following warning signs:
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Chest pain
Signs of severe dehydration (e.g., not passing urine for 8 hours or more)
The fever returns or a new fever lasts for more than 3 days
The child appears unusually lethargic, confused, or unresponsive
To help prevent any secondary bacterial infections following a viral illness, ensure your child gets plenty of rest and maintains good fluid intake. Most children will recover completely within 1 to 2 weeks with proper home care!
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
