Delhi sees a rise in dengue cases; know the symptoms, causes and prevention

These mosquitoes thrive in areas with standing water, including puddles, water tanks, containers, and old tires. “It occurs in two forms: classical dengue fever also known as ‘break-bone’ fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) which is life-threatening. It is highly contagious and spreads from one person to another through mosquito bites,” said Dr Tayal.

Symptoms of dengue

Dr Khushali Lalcheta, consultant physician, HCG Hospital, Rajkot, said, “The infection manifests through symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, rash and in severe cases, haemorrhagic manifestations.”

The infection is characterised by flu-like symptoms which include a sudden high-grade fever coming in separate waves, pain behind the eyes, muscles, joints, bones, severe headache, abdominal fullness and discomfort and a skin rash with red spots which happens by the fifth day of illness, explained Dr Tayal.

Warning signs according to Dr Tayal

• Severe abdominal pain and abdominal swelling
• Vomiting multiple times
• Bleeding from the nose or gums
• Vomiting blood or blood in the stool
• Altered consciousness level

Patients with symptoms suggestive of DHF should be immediately hospitalised, said Dr Tayal. “In dengue patients, the fever usually settles down by the fifth day and all dengue-related complications tend to happen 24-48 hours after the fever settles leading to DHF,” Dr Tayal said.

Stay safe from monsoon-related diseases caused by mosquitoes. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Diagnosis and treatment

Early diagnosis and appropriate supportive care are vital for effective treatment, as there are currently no specific antiviral therapies available. According to Dr Tayal, treatment includes supportive care at home in the form of paracetamol for fever, antiemetics for nausea, and adequate fluid intake. “The mainstay of treatment is hydration,” noted Dr Tayal.

“With prompt medical attention, most patients can experience a full recovery, although it may take several weeks to regain optimal health,” said Dr Lalcheta. It generally takes seven days for a person to recover from dengue and another five to seven days for the weakness to settle, added Dr Tayal.

Prevention

Eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using protective clothing and implementing mosquito control measures can help, said Dr Lalcheta.

Preventive measures according to Dr Tayal

*Use a repellent containing 20-30 percent DEET or 20 per cent Picaridin on exposed skin.

*Wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) long-sleeved, breathable garments.

*Get rid of water containers around dwellings and ensure that door and window screens work properly.

*Follow basic precautions and take timely medical advice to avoid unnecessary hospitalisation and complications.

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