Understanding Dengue Fever in Children

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that commonly affects children and adults in tropical and subtropical regions. It is transmitted mainly through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. While most children recover with proper supportive care, some can develop severe dengue and require urgent medical attention.

At Care N Cure Nursing Home, Jammu, Dr. Neerupam Gupta, Pediatrician, provides evaluation and medical care for children with fever and suspected dengue.

What Causes Dengue?

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.

• These mosquitoes are commonly active during the daytime.

• They can breed in stagnant water around homes.

• Dengue does not usually spread directly from one person to another.

Common Symptoms of Dengue in Children

Symptoms usually develop around 4–10 days after infection and may include:

• High fever

• Headache

• Body, muscle or joint pain

• Pain behind the eyes

• Nausea or vomiting

• Skin rash

• Weakness and tiredness

• Reduced appetite

Most uncomplicated cases improve within 1–2 weeks.

Warning Signs Parents Should Not Ignore

One of the most important aspects of dengue care is recognizing warning signs, particularly when the fever begins to decrease.

Seek immediate medical attention if a child develops:

• Severe abdominal pain or tenderness

• Persistent or repeated vomiting

• Bleeding from the nose or gums

• Blood in vomit or stool

• Rapid breathing or breathing difficulty

• Extreme weakness, restlessness or unusual sleepiness

• Pale, cold or clammy skin

• Very little or no urine

• Difficulty drinking fluids

Severe dengue can progress rapidly and may require hospital management. Importantly, a fall in fever does not always mean that the child is recovering.

How Is Dengue Diagnosed?

A pediatrician may assess:

• The child's symptoms and medical history

• Physical examination

• Blood tests when appropriate

• Platelet count and other blood parameters

• Hydration status and other signs of complications

The need for testing and monitoring depends on the child's age, symptoms and stage of illness.

Treatment of Dengue in Children

There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management mainly focuses on supportive care and monitoring.

Parents should:

• Ensure adequate fluids as advised by the pediatrician

• Encourage sufficient rest

• Monitor the child's fever and overall condition

• Follow the doctor's advice regarding medicines

• Avoid giving aspirin or ibuprofen unless specifically advised by a doctor, as these medicines can increase bleeding risk.

Preventing Dengue

Prevention starts with controlling mosquito exposure:

• Remove stagnant water from containers, coolers and flowerpots.

• Keep water-storage containers covered.

• Use mosquito repellents appropriately.

• Dress children in clothing that covers the arms and legs.

• Use window screens and mosquito nets when appropriate.

• Keep the child's surroundings clean and free from mosquito-breeding sites.

When Should Parents Consult a Pediatrician?

Any child with persistent high fever, vomiting, poor fluid intake, unusual weakness or other concerning symptoms should be evaluated by a pediatrician.

Dr. Neerupam Gupta – Pediatrician Care N Cure Nursing Home, Jammu

Early recognition, appropriate monitoring and timely medical care can help prevent complications from dengue in children.