What should I do if my body temperature remains at 37.5°C after contracting influenza A?

Generally speaking, "A flu" refers to influenza A. A temperature of 37.5°C in patients with influenza A may be caused by immune system reactions, environmental factors, common cold, bronchitis, sinusitis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice and undergo general treatment or medication under a doctor's guidance. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Immune System Reaction

After infection with influenza A, the body's immune system identifies the virus as a foreign antigen and initiates an immune response. Immune cells release endogenous pyrogens such as interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor, which act on the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center, shifting the body's temperature set point upward, thus causing an increase in body temperature to approximately 37.5°C. Regular exercise, including at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, is recommended to enhance immunity.

2. Environmental Influence

If the surrounding environment is excessively hot or poorly ventilated, the body may experience difficulty dissipating heat, leading to a rise in body temperature. This is especially true when the body is weakened by influenza A infection and more sensitive to changes in environmental temperature. It is recommended to maintain indoor temperatures between 22-24°C and humidity between 50%-60%, with ventilation for about 30 minutes at a time, 2-3 times daily.

3. Common Cold

During an influenza A infection, a patient's weakened immune system may allow other viruses, such as rhinovirus or coronavirus, to cause a common cold. These viral infections can further irritate respiratory mucosa, triggering an inflammatory response that maintains body temperature around 37.5°C. Symptoms such as nasal congestion and runny nose may also occur. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as compound paracetamol amine capsules,感冒清热颗粒 (Ganmao Qingre Granules), or Shuanghuanglian oral liquid may be used for treatment.

4. Bronchitis

Influenza A virus infection can damage respiratory mucosa, potentially reducing airway defense mechanisms and allowing bacterial invasion and proliferation, leading to bronchitis. Inflammation stimulates tracheal and bronchial mucosa, causing local congestion, edema, and production of inflammatory mediators that induce fever, possibly resulting in a temperature of 37.5°C. Symptoms such as coughing and sputum production may also occur. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, azithromycin dispersible tablets, or cefixime granules for treatment.

5. Sinusitis

When influenza A infection spreads to the sinuses, inflammation of the sinus mucosa causes congestion, edema, increased secretions, and impaired drainage, resulting in persistent inflammation and the above symptoms. Nasal congestion and runny nose may also occur. Under a doctor's recommendation, patients may use medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, roxithromycin capsules, or mometasone furoate nasal spray for treatment.

Maintaining personal hygiene, washing hands frequently with soap or hand wash following the seven-step handwashing technique, can reduce the risk of viral infection. During flu season, avoid crowded and poorly ventilated places as much as possible. If necessary, wear a mask.