Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) Epidemic During Rainy Season

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF)

Dengue Fever

     Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a contagious disease caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It is most commonly seen in children aged 5-14 years and tends to spread during the rainy season, approximately from May to September.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

If a patient with dengue fever experiences any of the following symptoms, they should be taken to the hospital immediately for urgent medical care to save their life and prevent complications:

• Persistent high fever, red face, red eyes, coughing, sore throat, headaches, and muscle pain.
• Becoming lethargic, extremely fatigued, or having a reduced appetite.
• Severe abdominal pain, constant nausea, and vomiting.
• Bleeding in various parts of the body, such as nosebleeds, vomiting blood, or black stools.
• Restlessness, irritability, and a change in normal behavior.
• Constant thirst, and in young children, continuous crying.
• Cold body temperature, skin turning darker, or showing a mottled appearance.
• Reduced urination or not urinating for an extended period.

Infants and the Elderly: Special Attention

     Infants under the age of 1 and elderly individuals are at higher risk of severe dengue fever. Infants have low immunity and may experience more severe symptoms, while elderly people with underlying health conditions like diabetes or hypertension are also at higher risk. Therefore, if someone experiences a persistent high fever for 2 days with no improvement, dengue fever should be suspected, and a doctor should be consulted for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

3 Stages of Dengue Fever

• Fever Stage (2-7 days) A high fever (39-40°C), intense heat, persistent fever even after taking medication, loss of appetite, flushed face, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and visible bleeding spots on the body, arms, and legs or nosebleeds.
• Critical Stage The fever rapidly drops, and symptoms may worsen with restlessness, cold hands, a weak pulse, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and black stools. Shock or loss of consciousness may occur.
• Recovery Stage Once the critical stage is over, symptoms improve rapidly, and the patient recovers to normal health.

Treatment and Care for Dengue Fever

• If fever occurs, use a damp cloth to wipe the body with plain or lukewarm water frequently, wear light clothing, and use a light blanket.
• Paracetamol should be taken at least every 4 hours. Aspirin should be avoided as it can cause bleeding. Intramuscular injections and unnecessary medications should also be avoided.
• Patients should be rehydrated as high fever, loss of appetite, and vomiting can lead to dehydration. It is recommended to drink oral rehydration solutions or slightly salted fruit juices instead of plain water. If vomiting occurs, drink small amounts frequently.
• Once the patient begins to recover and shows an appetite, they should eat easy-to-digest, bland foods like rice porridge or congee, and avoid foods or drinks that are dark or red in color, as it may be difficult to distinguish from blood if vomiting occurs.

If the fever decreases and the patient becomes more lethargic, experiences increased abdominal pain, and cold hands and feet, it may indicate they are entering the critical stage. Immediate medical attention is necessary, and in severe cases, intensive care may be required.

The Prevention of Dengue Fever

• Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by removing standing water from around the house, as mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water. Cover water storage containers and destroy any items that may collect water by using abate sand or salt to kill mosquito larvae.
• Use insecticide or camphor to treat hidden corners inside and outside the house every week.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during the daytime. Use mosquito nets while sleeping or stay in well-lit areas with good airflow.
• Get Qdenga vaccine to reduce the risk of contracting dengue fever and to lessen the severity of the disease if infected.