Understanding Causes, Recognizing Symptoms, and Implementing Critical Safety Measures
With
the increase in rainfall, floods, and landslides, there is also an alarming
rise in dengue cases. Many people mistake dengue for common fever and neglect
their health and medical advice until platelet levels drop and the condition
worsens. Here is a comprehensive guide on what dengue is, when to seek help,
and how to protect yourself
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. The virus responsible for dengue is called the dengue virus (DENV), which has four distinct serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4).
Symptoms of Dengue : Symptoms typically appear 4-10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last for 2-7 days. Common symptoms include:
- High Fever: Sudden onset, often reaching 104°F (40°C).
- Severe Headache: Intense pain, usually behind the eyes.
- Pain: Severe joint
and muscle pain, often called "breakbone
fever."
- Rash: A rash that
may spread across the body.
- Nausea
and Vomiting:
Frequent feelings of nausea and vomiting.
- Fatigue: Generalized
weakness and fatigue.
- Mild
Bleeding:
Such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising.
Severe dengue can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Impact of Low Platelet Count.
A low platelet count in dengue can lead to several complications:
Bleeding and Bruising: Increased risk of spontaneous bleeding from gums, nose, gastrointestinal tract, and skin.
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF): Severe bleeding can occur, leading to critical conditions if not managed promptly.
Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS): Severe cases may progress to shock due to significant plasma leakage and bleeding.
Monitoring and Management
1. Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring of platelet count and hematocrit levels is essential to assess the severity of the infection and guide treatment. Look for warning signs such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, fatigue, restlessness, and blood in vomit or stool.
2. Supportive Care: Hydration: Adequate fluid intake to maintain blood volume and prevent shock. Hospitalization: Severe cases may require hospitalization for close monitoring and supportive care.
3.
Platelet Transfusions: In cases of severe
thrombocytopenia with active bleeding or very low platelet counts, platelet
transfusions may be necessary.
Safety Measures
1. Eliminate Breeding Sites: Remove standing water from containers, flower pots, and old tires. Regularly clean and cover water storage containers.
2. Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply insect repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during early morning and late afternoon when mosquitoes are most active.
3. Install Screens and Nets: Use window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering. Sleep under mosquito nets, particularly in high-prevalence areas.
4. Use Mosquito Traps and Insecticides: Use indoor insecticide sprays, mosquito coils, or electric mosquito traps. Apply larvicides to water storage containers to kill mosquito larvae.
