Antipyretic Management in Flu Patients

Symptomatic Management

• The American Academy of Pediatrics and other guideline societies recommend never using aspirin in children with flu-like illness due to Reye's syndrome risk 1, 2

Antiviral Therapy

• Antiviral therapy, such as oseltamivir, should be considered if a patient presents within 48 hours of symptom onset with fever >38°C 1, 3

Red Flags for Antibiotic Use

• Previously healthy adults with uncomplicated flu do not require antibiotics, but they should be added if worsening symptoms suggest bacterial pneumonia 1, 3, 4, 5
• Monitor for signs requiring antibiotics, such as recrudescent fever after initial improvement, increasing dyspnea or new respiratory distress, and development of pneumonia signs (focal chest findings, purulent sputum) 2, 4, 5