Dengue Fever: A Dangerous Disease Close to Home, Preventable if Recognized in Time

Dengue fever is a viral infectious disease that is commonly found in Thailand, especially during the rainy season, which is when mosquitoes breed effectively. This disease can affect people of all ages, and if not treated properly, it can lead to severe complications and even death. Being aware of the symptoms, causes, and prevention methods is crucial in reducing the severity of the disease.

 

What Causes Dengue Fever?

     Dengue fever is caused by the Dengue virus, which has 4 strains. It is transmitted to humans through bites from infected Aedes mosquitoes, which are most active during the day, especially around homes, schools, and workplaces. People who have had dengue fever before can get infected again, and subsequent infections may be more severe than the first.

 

Symptoms of Dengue Fever...!!

 - Sudden high fever of 39-40°C lasting for 2-7 days, with fever not subsiding after taking fever-reducing medication

 - Muscle pain, joint pain, and eye socket pain, with some cases experiencing seizures, especially in children with a history of seizures

 - Headache, eye socket pain

 - Muscle and joint aches

 - Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting

 - Red rashes on the body, arms, or legs

 - In some cases, severe symptoms may occur, such as easy bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding from gums), severe abdominal pain, excessive vomiting, cold hands and feet, drowsiness, and fatigue, which could be signs of shock from dengue fever. Immediate medical attention is necessary.

 

Dengue fever symptomsThe symptoms of dengue fever during the first infection are usually not very severe, but if it is the second infection, it can become much more severe, leading to bleeding and shock. Diagnosing the disease in the early stages can be challenging as it is difficult to distinguish from general fever symptoms. Blood tests are required for confirmation. However, if the patient is only ill for 1-2 days, the blood test may not detect the virus. It usually takes 3-4 days, depending on individual factors

 

Diagnosis and Treatment..!!

Doctors diagnose dengue fever based on symptoms, medical history, and blood tests. Currently, there is no medication to directly kill the dengue virus. Treatment is mostly supportive, aimed at reducing severity and addressing complications arising from the progression of the disease to prevent critical conditions. Treatment is therefore symptomatic, such as

  - Proper Fluid Administration
  - Monitoring for Complications
  - Avoid Certain Medications: Such as aspirin or painkillers that affect blood clotting.

 

Prevent Dengue Fever...!!

- Boost immunity by receiving the dengue fever vaccine in 3 doses for children over 9 years old who have had dengue fever before, to reduce the severity of the disease. 

- Prevent mosquito bites by wearing protective clothing, using various mosquito repellents, or installing tightly sealed mosquito nets in the bedroom.

- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites around the house and nearby areas by covering containers with standing water to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. Change water in uncovered containers, such as vases, weekly. Release fish to eat mosquito larvae in water tanks. Maintain a clean environment around the house by removing debris that could collect water, such as old bottles and cans.

- Cooperate to maintain cleanliness in homes, schools, and communities.

 

Currently, there is no medication that can eliminate the dengue virus. Therefore, the best way to prepare for the disease is through prevention and proper treatment. However, during the dengue season, if your child has a high fever for several days, parents should not ignore it. It is important to take your child to see a doctor early for proper diagnosis. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the child may experience shock and be at risk of death.

 

 

Source : Phitsanuvej Phichit Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team