Does a fever and throat infection mean swine flu symptoms?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 26-month-old son had a 100-degree fever yesterday morning. So, I gave him Combiflam, and he was fine the entire day. The next morning, he got a fever of 103 degrees. So, we took him to the doctor, who said that it was a throat infection. Besides a fever and mild cough, he did not have any other symptoms. I have given him the medicines again now, and he is fine. I am worried about swine flu. Should we get tested for it? Please guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

If he is active otherwise, I suggest you continue the medicines which the doctor has prescribed for one more day and closely monitor him. If he is easily tired and not too active, then the swine flu test can be considered.

If he is active but a high fever continues beyond 24 hours, you can review with the doctor, so that the investigations can be suggested based on his condition. However, if he has been in contact with someone having swine flu, please get the test done right away.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Swine flu is just like a viral cold or throat infection, but children do have diarrhea and vomiting. The child is not very active and looks tired. Sometimes, an active child might suddenly develop breathing difficulty. The test done is a throat swab. A small stick that resembles an earbud is swiped around the throat, and it is sent for testing.

The report arrives after three days. Please review with the doctor after 24 to 48 hours if the symptoms persist on day three of the illness so that he can identify the cause after examining the child again. If the child has been prescribed antibiotics, they take 48 hours to act. So, wait until then if there is no worsening of symptoms.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.