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

Fever of unknown origin (not diagnosed)

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.
On the evening of September 12, I began to experience muscle aches and fever, with a maximum temperature of 38.5 degrees Celsius.
A rapid test showed a negative result.
On the night of September 12, I felt well before going to bed, although I had some difficulty falling asleep.
Throughout the night, my temperature fluctuated between 37.5 and 38.5 degrees Celsius, and I woke up around 5 AM feeling relatively refreshed.
I would like to ask what might be causing this phenomenon.
If I need to seek medical attention, which department should I visit? Thank you, doctor!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/13

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, as some medications can have side effects that may cause discomfort.
If your symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/09/13

More Info

Unexplained fever can be concerning, especially following a family member's COVID-19 diagnosis. In your case, the timeline suggests that you may have been exposed to the virus, even if your rapid test results were negative. It is important to understand that rapid tests, while useful, are not foolproof and can sometimes yield false negatives, particularly in the early stages of infection.

Your symptoms of muscle aches and fever, especially after close contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases, warrant careful consideration. The fever you are experiencing, which fluctuates between 37.5°C and 38.5°C, could be a response to an infection, possibly viral in nature. The body often reacts to infections by raising its temperature as a defense mechanism.
Given that you have experienced muscle pain and fever, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If your fever persists for more than a few days, or if you develop additional symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or gastrointestinal issues, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.
In terms of which medical specialty to consult, you may want to start with a family medicine or internal medicine physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a detailed history and physical examination, and may recommend further testing, such as a PCR test for COVID-19, which is more sensitive than rapid tests. They can also assess for other potential causes of your fever, such as other viral infections, bacterial infections, or inflammatory conditions.

Additionally, if you experience any alarming symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever, you should seek emergency care immediately.
It is also worth noting that post-viral syndromes can occur after infections, including COVID-19. These can manifest as prolonged fatigue, muscle pain, and other systemic symptoms even after the acute phase of the illness has resolved.
In summary, while your current symptoms may be related to a viral infection, possibly COVID-19, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult a healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen or do not improve. They will guide you through the necessary steps for diagnosis and treatment, ensuring that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. Stay hydrated, rest, and monitor your symptoms closely during this time.

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