Flu in Infants: When to Seek Hospital Care for Your Baby

The baby has influenza?

Hello, my four-year-old child caught an infection at preschool and transmitted it to my eight-month-old daughter and myself.
Based on my condition, the doctor diagnosed it as influenza and prescribed Tamiflu.
The older child has improved, but the baby has had a recurring fever for four days, with a maximum temperature of 39.5°C.
The intervals between fevers have lengthened, but she often coughs with phlegm at night while sleeping.
After the fever subsides, she tends to be very sleepy, irritable, and has a poor appetite, only eating a little porridge and willing to drink breast milk, but she refuses to drink water.
She often vomits, sometimes forcefully.
Should we continue administering Tamiflu and monitor her condition, or is it necessary to transfer her to a larger hospital for further evaluation? Thank you.

Huang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/03

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

At only 8 months old, the child is in a high-risk group for influenza and has had a persistent high fever for 4 days despite taking antiviral medication.
It is advisable to go to a major hospital's emergency department for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/03/03

More Info

When it comes to flu in infants, especially in a case like yours where your 8-month-old baby has been experiencing high fever and other concerning symptoms, it is crucial to be vigilant and proactive. The flu can be particularly severe in young children, and your baby's symptoms warrant careful consideration.

Given that your baby has had a high fever (up to 39.5°C or 103.1°F) for four days, is experiencing persistent cough with phlegm, and is showing signs of lethargy and irritability, it is essential to seek medical attention. While the flu can often be managed at home, certain signs indicate that hospitalization may be necessary. These include:
1. High Fever: A fever that persists for more than three days, especially if it reaches high temperatures, can be a sign of a more serious infection or complication.

2. Respiratory Distress: If your baby is coughing frequently and has difficulty breathing, this could indicate that the flu has led to bronchitis or pneumonia, both of which require medical intervention.

3. Dehydration: Since your baby is not drinking water and is only taking small amounts of milk, there is a risk of dehydration. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, lack of tears when crying, and decreased urine output.

4. Persistent Vomiting: Frequent vomiting, especially if it is projectile, can lead to dehydration and may require medical evaluation to rule out other underlying issues.

5. Lethargy: If your baby is unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, this could be a sign of a more severe illness.

In your situation, since your baby is not adequately hydrating and is showing signs of distress, it is advisable to take her to a hospital for further evaluation. The healthcare providers can assess her condition more thoroughly, possibly perform tests to determine if there are any complications from the flu, and provide necessary treatments such as intravenous fluids if dehydration is present.

Regarding the use of antiviral medication (like the one you mentioned, "克流感"), it is essential to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider. If your baby is experiencing significant side effects from the medication, such as vomiting, it may be necessary to reassess the treatment plan.
In summary, while flu can often be managed at home, your baby's symptoms suggest that she may need more intensive care. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention to ensure her safety and well-being. Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes, especially in young infants.

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