Fever after turning from positive to negative for COVID-19
Jan 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. If fever reoccurs after testing negative for COVID-19 following a positive result, it may indicate that the body has not fully recovered; a small number of patients might experience this. It could also be caused by factors such as the common cold or inflammatory infections. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and initiate appropriate drug treatment. Patients should avoid getting chilled, drink plenty of warm water, maintain a light diet, and strengthen their immune system in daily life.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. If fever reoccurs after a person has tested negative following a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, it may indicate that the body has not fully recovered—some individuals may still experience fever during this period. It could also be caused by factors such as the common cold or inflammatory infections. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate drug treatment accordingly.
1. Novel Coronavirus Infection
Although patients have transitioned from positive to negative for the novel coronavirus, residual virus in the body may still impair immune function, potentially leading to secondary infections and subsequent fever. If body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, antipyretic medications such as aspirin tablets or paracetamol sustained-release tablets should be taken under medical guidance.
2. Common Cold
After contracting the novel coronavirus, a patient's resistance may decrease. If exposed to cold conditions, they may develop a common cold, which often presents with fever. Under medical supervision, oral medications such as Ganmaoling granules or compound paracetamol and amantadine tablets can be used for treatment.
3. Inflammation
Following a novel coronavirus infection, if a patient already has pre-existing inflammation, local inflammatory mediators and cytokines may enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body, potentially affecting the central nervous system in the brain. This may lead to symptoms such as chills and increased body surface temperature. Antibiotics such as cefaclor capsules or amoxicillin capsules may be used according to medical instructions.
Besides the above causes, recurrent fever may also be associated with conditions such as tuberculosis or pneumonia. It is important to identify the specific cause and treat accordingly. Patients should avoid exposure to cold, drink plenty of warm water, maintain a light diet, and strengthen overall immunity in daily life.
