A recent report by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) revealed that Delhi recorded a total of 3,013 dengue cases along with one fatality this year. Several other states and cities like Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Gurgaon reported dengue-related deaths, leading to a state of alarm throughout the country. While the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests severe dengue and death are extremely rare, one may need immediate hospital care if it occurs. Having said that, many factors can influence a person's risk of severe dengue.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Prof (Dr) SK Jain, Dean Faculty of Medical Sciences, Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), UP, not only lists down the risk factors, but also shares necessary actions to take in the event of severe dengue.
Factors That Influence The Risk Of Severe Dengue
Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the bite of the Aedes mosquitoes. The WHO estimates a global prevalence of more than 5-10 crore cases each year, suggesting that 300 crore people live in dengue endemic countries.
While rare, severe dengue is a life-threatening complication that can occur from a dengue infection. Dr Jain says several factors can influence one’s risk of severe dengue. These include:
Also Read: What Time Of Year Is Dengue Most Common In India? Measures To Stay Safe
Age: Young children and the elderly are more prone to severe dengue since their immune systems have not previously encountered the virus or may have been compromised, respectively.
Secondary infections: For people who believe that they’re likely to be immune to dengue just because you were previously infected with one form of dengue virus and are exposed to a different type, you’re wrong. What’s worse is that such groups of people are more likely to develop severe dengue, also called a secondary infection, says Dr Jain.
Health status: Individuals with certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or chronic heart diseases, may be more susceptible to severe dengue.
Timely medical care: According to Dr Jain, early detection and proper medical care significantly reduce the risk of severe dengue. Therefore, prompt medical intervention can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications.
Warning Signs Of Severe Dengue
Dengue infection has an incubation period of 4-10 days after the bite of the infected mosquito, following which fever and other symptoms can occur and last for 2-7 days. These include:
- Headaches
- Pain behind eyes
- Nausea, vomiting
- Swollen glands
- Joint, bone or muscle pains
- Rash
In severe dengue cases, symptoms can be more intense and complicated, which include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding gums
- Vomiting blood
- Rapid breathing
- Fatigue/ restlessness
According to the WHO, severe dengue occurs around 3-7 days after the first sign of illness. Note that a decrease in temperature does not indicate recovery.
Immediate Steps To Take Before It’s Too Late
Dr Jain recommends seeking medical attention immediately if you suspect you have dengue or have been diagnosed with it. According to him, early diagnosis and immediate medical attention is paramount and crucial in reducing the severity of the illness.
In addition, dengue fever can cause severe dehydration due to fever, vomiting, and diarrhoea, which is why one must drink plenty of fluids, such as water, oral rehydration solutions, and clear soups, to stay hydrated.
You must also take rest and avoid any strenuous activity.
Also Read: Scrub Typhus Versus Dengue: Warning Signs And Differences Between The Two
In the event of high, unbearable fever, Over-The-Counter (OTC) pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate symptoms. Dr Jain warns against the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding in some cases. It is best to stay in touch with a doctor to manage dengue symptoms.
Additionally, in severe cases of dengue, where platelet counts drop significantly and there is a risk of bleeding, healthcare providers may recommend platelet transfusions to prevent or treat bleeding complications. Advising further, Dr Jain says, “Adhere to the treatment plan and medical advice provided by healthcare professionals. This may include monitoring blood counts, vital signs, and other parameters.”
Preventive Measures
Here are a few measures to prevent mosquito bites and dengue infection:
- Do not allow water to stagnate as it can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes
- Empty and cover containers used in water storage
- Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Use mosquito repellents
- Stay hydrated
Conclusion
Young or old, anyone can get dengue. Some even go on to develop severe infection, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, be vigilant and do not take the illness lightly. Follow necessary precautions to curb the spread of the virus. Make sure you protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites.
