Q: My child has Influenza A and a 40°C fever. Is it okay to skip their evening antibiotics if they are sleeping?

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 today and has been suffering from a high fever of nearly 40°C. They only ate half a bowl of porridge all day and are currently just sleeping. They also have a severe runny nose and phlegm. They took their morning antibiotics, but because they fell asleep without eating dinner, I haven't given them the evening dose yet. Should I wake my child up to give them the antibiotics?

Answer:

It is completely understandable to be very worried seeing your child struggle with a 40°C fever and sleeping all day due to the flu.

Current Situation Assessment

Since Influenza A is a viral infection, antibiotics do not treat the flu virus itself. The antibiotics were likely prescribed to treat or prevent secondary bacterial complications, such as a middle ear infection (otitis media) or pneumonia, which can occur when there are severe respiratory symptoms like a runny nose and phlegm.

Advice on Antibiotics

• If your child naturally wakes up, you can try giving the antibiotics with a small amount of water or juice.

• If they are severely nauseous or at risk of vomiting, wait 30 minutes to an hour before trying to administer the medication.

• If it is completely impossible to administer the evening dose because they are in a deep sleep, do not force them awake just for the medication. Let them rest, and simply resume the regular dosing schedule tomorrow morning.

Things to Monitor Closely at Home

Please monitor your child's condition carefully overnight. Pay attention to how well they are staying hydrated, if they are responsive when you gently wake them, and their breathing patterns.

⚠️ Go to the Emergency Room Immediately If:

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

• They are completely unresponsive or lethargic when you try to wake them.

• They have not urinated for more than 8 hours (a sign of severe dehydration).

• You notice cyanosis (bluish coloring on the lips or fingernails).

High fevers from the flu can last for 3 to 5 days. Keeping your child comfortable with fever reducers and ensuring adequate fluid intake are the most important things right now. If your child's overall condition does not improve by tomorrow morning, please visit your pediatrician for a follow-up evaluation.

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

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play

🌐 Also available in: Español · 한국어