Why can't I reduce my fever around 39°C after contracting influenza A, and what should I do?

Mar 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

In general, "Jia Liu" refers to influenza A, and "Tui Shao" refers to fever reduction. Influenza A accompanied by a fever of around 39°C that cannot be reduced may be caused by strong immune reactions, impaired heat dissipation mechanisms, mycoplasma infection, acute tonsillitis, pneumonia, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the doctor's guidance for general treatment, medication, or other appropriate treatments.

Generally, "Jia Liu" refers to influenza A, and "tui shao" refers to fever reduction. Influenza A with persistent fever around 39°C that cannot be reduced may be caused by a strong immune response, impaired heat dissipation mechanisms, mycoplasma infection, acute tonsillitis, pneumonia, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice and receive treatments such as general supportive care and medication under a doctor's guidance. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Strong Immune Response

After the influenza A virus invades the body, the immune system initiates an immune response, releasing numerous cytokines such as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor. These cytokines stimulate the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center, shifting the body's temperature set point upward, resulting in fever. If the immune response is overly strong, the body temperature may remain persistently around 39°C and be difficult to reduce. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can enhance personal immunity and maintain immune system balance.

2. Impaired Heat Dissipation Mechanism

The body primarily dissipates heat through mechanisms such as skin vasodilation and sweating. After contracting influenza A, being in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment or wearing excessively thick or tightly wrapped clothing can impair skin heat dissipation, causing heat accumulation in the body and making it difficult for the temperature to drop. In daily life, avoid excessively hot and poorly ventilated environments. When feverish, wear light and breathable clothing, and maintain an indoor temperature of 22–24°C to facilitate heat dissipation.

3. Mycoplasma Infection

During influenza A, decreased immunity makes the body susceptible to concurrent mycoplasma infection. Mycoplasma metabolic products can stimulate the body, causing persistent fever. Symptoms may also include a persistent dry cough and chest pain. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as azithromycin dry suspension, roxithromycin capsules, and levofloxacin tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Acute Tonsillitis

Influenza A virus infection can cause tonsillar inflammation, and the inflammatory stimulation leads to fever, potentially causing persistent fever around 39°C that does not subside. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Follow medical advice to use medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, cefprozil tablets, and paracetamol tablets for treatment.

5. Pneumonia

The influenza A virus invading the lungs can cause pneumonia. If the inflammatory response is severe, it may lead to persistent high fever. Symptoms may also include coughing and sputum production. Under a doctor's recommendation, medications such as moxifloxacin hydrochloride tablets, ceftriaxone sodium for injection, and ambroxol hydrochloride injection may be used for treatment.

In daily life, during flu season, avoid crowded and poorly ventilated places as much as possible. Wear a mask when necessary, keep indoor air fresh, and regularly open windows for ventilation to reduce the risk of infection.

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Is dizziness after influenza A a sign of recovery?

Under normal circumstances, "Jia Liu" refers to Influenza A H1N1. Whether dizziness following Influenza A H1N1 indicates recovery depends on the specific circumstances. If dizziness is the only symptom present without other accompanying symptoms, it usually suggests the condition is improving. However, if dizziness is accompanied by other systemic symptoms such as headache, tinnitus, or fatigue, it may not indicate improvement. If any discomfort persists, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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