Q: Flu A fever rebounded to 38.1°C after dropping to 35.6°C from a fever-reducing injection. Should I give medicine while my child is 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 42-month-old child (15 kg) has Influenza A. Yesterday, I accidentally gave them 9 mL of Dexibuprofen three times instead of the recommended 6 mL. Even with the correct doses afterward (every 4 hours), the fever wouldn't drop below 38°C. We eventually went to the doctor for a fever-reducing injection (at 38.7°C).

After the injection, their temperature plummeted to 35.6°C. I kept them warm all night because of the hypothermia, but after 5 hours, the fever has rebounded to 38.1°C.

Should I give fever-reducing medicine now? Or should I just monitor them since they are currently sleeping?

Answer:

It is completely understandable that you are worried about these extreme temperature fluctuations.

What to Do Right Now

• If your child is sleeping soundly, breathing comfortably, and not sweating heavily, do not wake them up to give medicine right now. Just continue to monitor them.

• Dress them in light, single-layered clothing, use a thin blanket, and maintain a room temperature of 20–24°C.

• When they wake up, offer water or thin rice gruel frequently in small amounts to keep them hydrated.

When to Give Medication

You can give 6 mL of Dexibuprofen if any of the following occur:

• Your child wakes up fussy or uncomfortable.

• They look exhausted from chills or the fever itself.

• It has been at least 6 hours since their last dose of Dexibuprofen.

Note on yesterday's dosage: While giving 9 mL three times slightly exceeded the daily maximum currently listed in the pharmacopeia (25 mL), this standard is in the process of being revised, and this isolated incident should not be a cause for concern.

The Course of Influenza A

With the flu, it is completely normal for a high fever to fluctuate up and down for 3 to 5 days. The effects of oral fever reducers and injections are only temporary. Your child's overall condition (hydration, urine output, and activity level) is much more important than the exact number on the thermometer.

Warning Signs (When to See a Doctor Today)

Please take your child for an in-person evaluation at your pediatrician if you notice any of the following:

• Rapid breathing, wheezing, or the skin pulling in under the ribs (retractions).

• No urine output for more than 8 hours.

• Difficulty waking up, extreme lethargy, or floppiness.

• Blue or pale lips and nails.

• Seizures or changes in consciousness.

Please continue to monitor your child for these warning signs today, and seek immediate medical attention if their condition changes or if any of the concerning symptoms mentioned above appear.

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

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