Question
The child is 2.5 years old and has had a fever for two to three days due to the flu, with temperatures ranging between 39°C and 40°C, peaking at 42°C but dropping shortly thereafter. Although there were no high fever convulsions, the child appeared restless and agitated today, with a poor mental state, slow responses, and decreased appetite. No vomiting or convulsions have occurred since then. What is the likelihood of meningitis? Generally speaking, how long does it take to completely rule out the possibility of meningitis? How long will it take for the child’s mental state to return to normal?
Answer
If the child only has symptoms of repeated fever and the temperature can be reduced with antipyretic medication without other clinical symptoms or accompanied by symptoms such as coughing or runny nose, the main consideration is likely an infection with the flu virus. According to your description, if the child is diagnosed with the flu and exhibits high fever, poor mental state, restlessness, decreased appetite, and slow responses, attention should be paid to whether there is accompanying neurological inflammation such as meningitis or encephalitis. It is recommended to seek immediate medical attention and hospitalization for observation.