When to Use On Demand Care for Fevers and Coughs

Senior Woman holding thermometer towards computer. She is getting virtual care for fever and cough.

Virtual care is a fast, convenient way to evaluate fevers and help you identify the cause—whether it’s a common cold, the flu, or something more serious. Clinicians are trained to ask the right questions, uncovering symptoms you may not even realize are important.

Virtual care is a convenient and effective option for evaluating fevers—especially when other symptoms are present, like a lingering cough or lethargy. Here’s what you need to know.

When Is Virtual Care a Good Choice?

If you or your child have a fever, virtual care can help if:

  • A fever is accompanied by a mild cough, runny nose, or chills
  • Symptoms like body aches, headaches, or sore throat are present
  • You suspect seasonal illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, or strep throat

During a virtual visit, a clinician can:

  • Evaluate your symptoms through detailed questions and video
  • Recommend at-home care or over-the-counter medications
  • Order testing for flu, COVID-19, or strep if needed (which can often be done home)
  • Prescribe antibiotics or other treatments when appropriate

Example: If you have a persistent cough and mild fever, a virtual care clinician might suspect a viral infection like the flu. They can recommend a test, provide advice, and prescribe treatment—all from the comfort of your home.

When an In-Person Visit Is Necessary

While virtual care is a great option for many cases, some symptoms require an in-person evaluation. Seek immediate in-person care if:

  • You or your child have difficulty breathing or persistent shortness of breath
  • A fever lasts more than 3–4 days, especially in young children
  • Coughing becomes severe, persistent, or is accompanied by wheezing
  • Symptoms worsen instead of improving after a few days

Note for Parents: If your child seems unusually lethargic, has difficulty swallowing, or is drooling excessively, skip virtual care and go straight to the nearest clinic or emergency room.

Why Virtual Care Works Well for Fevers and Coughs

Virtual clinicians are highly trained to investigate symptoms through questioning, even without a physical exam. For example, they may ask:

  • How long have the fever and cough lasted?
  • Are you experiencing shortness of breath or chest discomfort?
  • Do you have chills, body aches, or other symptoms?
  • Have you taken any at-home tests for flu, COVID-19, or strep?

By asking these detailed questions, clinicians can often uncover underlying conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed—like walking pneumonia, which can start as a mild cough and fever.

Preparing for a Virtual Visit

To get the best care possible:

  1. Check your temperature with a thermometer before your visit.
  2. Use a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels if you have trouble breathing.
  3. Take an at-home flu, strep, or COVID-19 test if symptoms match.
  4. Note how long you’ve had symptoms and any changes (e.g., worsening cough).