7-Year-Old Boy Diagnosed with Influenza B After Taking Fever Medication Three Times Daily for a Week
A 7-year-old boy in Taichung, who had been suffering from cold symptoms for a week without improvement, was diagnosed with Influenza B. His mother had been giving him fever medication with every meal, which masked his symptoms and delayed the diagnosis. Doctors advise using fever medication only when necessary.
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- 📰 Published: May 29, 2026 at 11:04
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According to the Central News Agency, Li General Hospital in Taichung announced today that a 7-year-old boy was diagnosed with Influenza B after his cold symptoms failed to improve for a week. Pediatrician Chiu Pin-yun noted that the boy appeared extremely uncomfortable, was coughing frequently, and had a poor appetite. His mother reported that he had been seeing a local clinic, but his condition did not improve, and his sister had also caught the cold.
Upon reviewing the medication, Dr. Chiu discovered that the boy had been taking fever reducers with every meal. Viral testing confirmed Influenza B, and after adjusting the medication to include antivirals, the boy's symptoms began to subside. Dr. Chiu explained that fever reducers are meant to alleviate discomfort and typically last 4-6 hours. Taking them three times a day can mask underlying conditions, making it difficult to diagnose other illnesses. She advised parents to use medication only when necessary, warning that excessive use does not speed up recovery and can strain the liver and kidneys.
Dr. Chiu added that influenza is now prevalent year-round. Influenza B symptoms often appear suddenly, including high fever, body aches, and severe fatigue. She urged parents to ensure children wash their hands frequently and keep them home from school if they contract the flu to prevent clusters.
Upon reviewing the medication, Dr. Chiu discovered that the boy had been taking fever reducers with every meal. Viral testing confirmed Influenza B, and after adjusting the medication to include antivirals, the boy's symptoms began to subside. Dr. Chiu explained that fever reducers are meant to alleviate discomfort and typically last 4-6 hours. Taking them three times a day can mask underlying conditions, making it difficult to diagnose other illnesses. She advised parents to use medication only when necessary, warning that excessive use does not speed up recovery and can strain the liver and kidneys.
Dr. Chiu added that influenza is now prevalent year-round. Influenza B symptoms often appear suddenly, including high fever, body aches, and severe fatigue. She urged parents to ensure children wash their hands frequently and keep them home from school if they contract the flu to prevent clusters.
FAQ
What should parents watch out for when a child has a fever?
Use antipyretics only when necessary and avoid excessive use.