Symptoms and treatment options for dengue fever.

We have a widespread problem with this disease yearly, which tends to appear after the rains.

Dengue fever is a severe, mosquito-borne viral illness that has spread worldwide. According to the most up-to-date estimates, almost 3.6 billion people, or nearly half of the world's population, currently reside in high-risk zones.





Children between 5 to 15 had the most excellent dengue fever case numbers. This illness is widespread across our country and is most noticeable following the annual monsoon



. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is responsible for transmitting dengue disease to people. To reduce the risk of infection, it is essential to eliminate standing water. Mosquitoes need to nest, practice excellent hygiene, and take special precautions during the day when the mosquito is most active. To avoid getting bit by mosquitoes, wrap up exposed skin or apply a repellent.



36 new dengue cases were registered in Delhi in July 2022, 75 in August, and 152 in September, totalling 396 for the year. There were 101 new instances in just the past week.


Infection


There are four recognized serotypes of the dengue virus. These are called DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4. Delhi has had the highest incidence and severity of DEN-2 during the past 50 years. Several reported instances of DEN-3 and 4 were found to be similar to or better than the original DEN. In 2013, researchers in Malaysia identified a fifth serotype that only manifests as a minor illness.





A youngster is theoretically susceptible to infection from all five serotypes. Suppose you've had an infection with one serotype. In that case, you'll be immune to that serotype forever. Still, secondary infection with a different serotype (secondary dengue) might cause serious illness. Dengue virus can cause both primary (first time) and secondary (recurrent) infections in children (second dengue virus infection with a different serotype).


Warning Symptoms


Fever for five days, but cold extremities when it subsides




Pain in the belly


The sensation of lightheadedness, especially when standing or walking


Instances of external or internal bleeding


Bleeding nose


Leakage of stool or urine


Bruises




Testing


On the first and second day, NS1 tests positive.


The IgM test returns positive five or six days into the process.


Incubation period: 4-10 days following a mosquito bite


Symptoms


Infected individuals may exhibit symptoms anywhere from those of a mild, non-specific viral illness to those of severe dengue infection, including but not limited to: fever for 5-6 days followed by cold extremities; bleeding from the nose or in the stool or blood spots; bruises under the skin; fluid leakage occurring due to injury of the blood vessel lining; decreased capillary brain flow; increased fluid in the lungs and abdomen; swelling under the skin; and puffy eyes. Weakness can occur if blood volume drops and there is concentrated blood from plasma leakage. (high hematocrit PCV tends to clot, and toxins break the platelets. Reducing the number and platelet functions that are not functioning well). Low urine output, abdominal discomfort, abnormal liver function tests (LFT), and pleural effusion (fluid on the lung's outer membrane) all result from insufficient blood supply (and hence oxygen delivery) to the liver and kidneys. If fluids are not taken in, either orally or intravenously (IV), symptoms might develop, including headaches and dizziness. Eventually, several organs can stop working.




A new serotype may dominate the epidemic each year. This year, we see the DEN-2 serotype associated with oedema, low blood pressure, and reduced bleeding. Platelet transfusions were more commonly needed a few years ago because more patients showed bleeding indications.


Treatment


Most dengue cases may be treated successfully with antipyretics and fluids at home. Patients may have a diminished appetite for solid foods. Thus it is essential to track their urine production to assess their risk of dehydration. Serotype does not matter regarding the severity or fatality of dengue symptoms such as dengue fever, dengue shock syndrome, or multiorgan failure.




On days 5 and 6, the fever usually subsides. Still, the leakage begins, leading to dehydration, low blood pressure, dizziness, stomach discomfort, a rash, and facial oedema. We have to hold off until the leak shows signs of improvement. By day 10, appetite has returned, and the patient's health has improved significantly. Any sign of bleeding necessitates close monitoring of the patient's platelet count. Babies so young that they are at risk for intracranial bleeding should have their platelets tested more often. It has been shown that individuals post-covid may be more susceptible to severe dengue infection and illness.




Dengue fever can be avoided. If feasible, school-aged children should use insect repellent on exposed skin or wear trousers throughout the mosquito breeding season.