Fever in COVID-19: Symptoms, Duration, and Contagion

Fever due to COVID-19?

Hello, doctor.
I am a confirmed case and have been on medication for a week.
My cough and phlegm have decreased, but I am experiencing tinnitus and, after the medication wears off, I start to have a fever with axillary temperatures ranging from 36.8 to 37.8 degrees Celsius.
The fever subsides after sweating or taking medication, occurring 3 to 4 times a day.
Is it normal to feel a burning and stuffy sensation around my eye sockets and forehead? How long is this likely to last? Am I contagious during the fever?

Yan Zi Xiao Xing Xing, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/11

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, if you have been diagnosed for over a week and still have a persistent fever, it is indeed uncommon.
I would like to know if you are experiencing any other discomfort.
If so, I recommend seeking medical attention to confirm whether there is a subsequent bacterial infection.
As for the potential for contagiousness, a PCR test may be necessary to determine the CT value.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/09/11

More Info

Fever is a common symptom associated with COVID-19, and understanding its characteristics can help manage the illness effectively. As a confirmed COVID-19 patient, experiencing fever can be concerning, especially when combined with other symptoms like cough and ear ringing.

Understanding Fever in COVID-19
1. Symptoms and Duration:
Fever in COVID-19 can manifest as a low-grade fever (around 37.5°C to 38.5°C) or higher. In your case, a temperature range of 36.8°C to 37.8°C is considered low-grade. It is not uncommon for COVID-19 patients to experience fluctuating fevers, which can occur several times a day. This fluctuation can be due to the body’s immune response to the virus, and it may last for several days to weeks. Typically, fever associated with COVID-19 can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s immune response.

2. Contagion During Fever:
During the period when you have a fever, you are likely to be contagious. The viral load tends to be higher when symptoms are present, especially during the initial days of illness. It is generally accepted that individuals with COVID-19 are most contagious in the first few days after symptom onset. Therefore, it is crucial to continue isolating yourself and following public health guidelines to prevent spreading the virus to others.

3. Management of Symptoms:
To manage your fever, it is advisable to continue taking antipyretics (fever-reducing medications) as prescribed or recommended by your healthcare provider. Staying hydrated and resting are also essential components of recovery. If your fever persists or worsens, or if you experience additional concerning symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

4. When to Seek Medical Attention:
If your fever continues to rise above 38.5°C (101.3°F) or if you experience severe symptoms, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation or treatment options based on your overall health status and the progression of your symptoms.

5. Post-Fever Considerations:
After the fever subsides, it is still important to monitor your symptoms. Some individuals experience lingering effects, often referred to as "long COVID," which can include fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory issues. If you notice any persistent symptoms after your fever resolves, follow up with your healthcare provider for further assessment.

Conclusion
In summary, experiencing a fever while recovering from COVID-19 is common and can fluctuate throughout the day. It is essential to manage your symptoms, stay hydrated, and isolate to prevent transmission. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Remember, every individual's response to COVID-19 can vary, and ongoing monitoring of your health is crucial during recovery.

Similar Q&A

Managing Fever After COVID-19 Diagnosis: Symptoms and Treatment

In the first three days after diagnosis, I experienced a fever of 38.5°C. After that, my daytime temperature was around 37.2-37.5°C, but as the sun began to set, I felt my temperature rise to 38.5°C, which lasted for about 3-4 hours before it decreased, accompanied by headaches. ...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine
1. When infected with COVID-19, there may also be infections in other areas, such as the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract, and wound infections. Therefore, please also check for any abnormalities in other areas. 2. Body temperature throughout the day is generally lower in t...

Negative COVID Tests but Persistent Fever: What Could It Mean?

Hello doctor, I am fifteen years old and have recently been quarantined at home due to close contact. I have taken two rapid tests, both of which were negative, but I continue to have a fever, with a maximum temperature of about 37.6 degrees Celsius. Aside from the fever, I do no...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine
Hello: It should not be the case. Besides COVID-19, there are also some seasonal infections, such as influenza, urinary tract infections, the common cold, and even allergies that may occur. Remember to take protective measures and practice contact isolation.

Unexplained Fever After Family COVID-19 Diagnosis: What to Know

Hello, doctor. On Sunday (September 11), a family member tested positive for COVID-19, and the next day (September 12), another family member also tested positive. I have no other symptoms of COVID-19, although I did experience wrist pain for one day, which resolved the next day....

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing early symptoms of COVID-19. Initially, the viral load may be low, which could result in a false negative on a rapid test. Another possibility is whether you have been taking any prophylactic medications, a...

Understanding Low-Grade Fever, Chills, Fatigue, and Headache Symptoms

Hello, I have been experiencing a low-grade fever for three to four days (body temperature around 37.3-37.5°C). I also have a headache, fatigue, and slight chills. I took a home rapid test for COVID-19 yesterday, which came back negative, thus ruling out the possibility of a COVI...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Hello, other viral infections, urinary tract infections, irregular lifestyle, high stress, and menstrual periods can all contribute to the symptoms mentioned above. It is recommended to maintain a regular schedule, exercise, and have a balanced diet, as well as to drink plenty of...