People afflicted with viral infections commonly take antipyretics (fever-reducing medicine) and go about their daily business as best they can. However, a positive correlation between body temperature and viral load was measured for influenza, and the period of viral shedding coincides with the period of fever.
I’ve always wondered if taking antipyretics like ibuprofen or acetaminophen is hindering your body’s attempt to fight the infection? As long as the fever isn’t dangerously high, is it beneficial to delay reducing the fever?
Viral load vs. fever
The old adage “soldier on” pushed by various Pharma has been flogged for years when clearly that does increase spread and delays treatments..
Great way to think about "if you're sick, stay home". And thanks for the data.
I’ve always wondered if taking antipyretics like ibuprofen or acetaminophen is hindering your body’s attempt to fight the infection? As long as the fever isn’t dangerously high, is it beneficial to delay reducing the fever?