Red flags & when to go in person for Frequent Infections in Children

Audience: pediatric

Frequent infections in children can be concerning for parents and caregivers. While many infections are mild and can be monitored or managed through telemedicine, some signs suggest the need for in-person medical evaluation. This guide helps families understand when telemedicine visits are appropriate and when to seek urgent care. Red flags include high fever lasting more than a few days, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, and signs of dehydration. Telemedicine can often help assess symptoms, provide guidance, and recommend treatments for mild infections. However, it cannot replace physical exams or urgent interventions required for serious infections. Preparing for a telemedicine visit by noting symptoms, recent exposures, and medical history helps healthcare providers offer better advice. Aftercare may include monitoring symptoms closely and scheduling follow-up visits if needed. Always prioritize your child's safety and seek in-person care when red flags appear or if symptoms worsen.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever above 39°C (102°F) lasting more than 3 days — seek in-person medical evaluation promptly.
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or persistent cough — go to emergency care immediately.
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea leading to signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, reduced urination) — seek urgent in-person care.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild infection symptoms such as low-grade fever, runny nose, mild cough, or rash.
• Guidance on symptom management and home care.
• Review of medical history and advice on when to seek in-person care.
• Follow-up consultations for stable conditions.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring palpation or auscultation to diagnose serious infections.
• Emergency situations such as severe breathing difficulty or altered consciousness.
• Procedures, laboratory tests, or imaging studies requiring in-person visits.
• Treatment of severe infections needing intravenous medications or hospitalization.

Understanding Frequent Infections in Children

Children commonly experience infections due to developing immune systems. These infections may include colds, ear infections, throat infections, and stomach bugs. Most are mild and resolve with rest and home care. However, frequent infections could sometimes indicate an underlying health issue requiring medical attention.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to evaluate your child's symptoms remotely. It is useful for discussing mild symptoms, reviewing medical history, and deciding if further care is needed. Providers can offer advice on symptom management, when to seek in-person care, and when to perform tests.

Red Flags That Require In-Person Care

Certain signs mean your child needs urgent in-person evaluation:

If you notice any of these, seek medical care immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To make the most of a telemedicine appointment:

What to Expect After the Telemedicine Visit

After the visit, follow the provider's recommendations carefully. This may include:

Keep communication open with your healthcare provider for any concerns.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List all current symptoms and how long they have lasted.
• Note any recent exposure to sick individuals or travel history.
• Gather your child's medical history and current medications.
• Have a thermometer and any medical devices ready to show or describe.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection for the tele-visit.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding medications and care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes or worsening.
• Keep a record of temperature and other vital signs if advised.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if symptoms persist or new symptoms develop.
• Seek immediate in-person care if any red flags or emergency signs appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of frequent infections in my child?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and provide guidance, but it often cannot replace physical exams or tests needed to diagnose the exact cause of frequent infections. In-person evaluation may be necessary for accurate diagnosis.

When should I choose in-person care over telemedicine for my child's infections?

If your child shows red flags such as high fever lasting several days, difficulty breathing, severe vomiting, or signs of dehydration, you should seek in-person care promptly. Telemedicine is best for mild symptoms and follow-up.

How can I prepare my child for a telemedicine visit?

Prepare a list of symptoms, their duration, and any recent exposures. Have your child's medical history and medications ready. Ensure a quiet space with good lighting and internet connection. Having a thermometer handy can help provide accurate information.

What should I do if my child's symptoms worsen after a telemedicine visit?

If symptoms worsen or new red flags appear after the telemedicine visit, seek in-person medical care immediately. Keep your healthcare provider informed about any changes.

Are there infections that telemedicine cannot manage?

Yes. Serious infections requiring physical exams, lab tests, imaging, or emergency treatment cannot be managed through telemedicine alone and need in-person care.

Sources

1. Frequent Infections in Children — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. When to Seek Medical Care for Your Child — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.
4. Common Childhood Infections — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
5. Managing Childhood Fever and Infections — National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child shows any red flags or if symptoms worsen, seek immediate in-person evaluation by a healthcare professional.