For doctors, treating dengue patients is not an easy task, but nonprofessionals often think of every possible way to treat the disease. Most
commonly, people think that antibiotics can treat dengue, as they do most
infections. Many people also feel that dengue is a contagious disease that can
be easily transmitted from one person to another. Moreover, some think that
they can be vaccinated against dengue. That is why it is important to know dos and don'ts during dengue.
Therefore, here
is a list to help you know what to do and what not to do regarding Dengue Fever. But before that, check out crucial facts on Dengue fever too.
Dengue Fever: A Big Challenge for Our World 🌎
Dengue is a viral infection that is spreading quickly, and it's a big problem for people living in tropical and subtropical countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) tells us that more than half of the world's population is now at risk. Over the last few years, there have been a huge number of cases, which show how important it is to know about this illness.
The virus is carried by a special type of mosquito called the Aedes aegypti mosquito. These mosquitoes like to bite during the day and they love to live in cities and towns. They especially breed in clean, still water that collects in places like buckets, flower pots, and old tires.
Dengue is very common in over 100 countries, and some of the most affected places are in Southeast Asia, South America, and even India. Places like Brazil, Peru, and Argentina have seen a lot of cases recently.
In India, many states like Delhi, Kerala, and West Bengal also face a lot of dengue cases, especially during and after the rainy season. This is why knowing dengue fever prevention tips is so important for families everywhere.
What to Do in Dengue Fever
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The first thing you need to do
is visit a doctor immediately if dengue is suspected.
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Cases related to Dengue
fever/Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever should be observed separately, as they need
extra attention from a doctor.
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If you think the high fever can
be the result of dengue, try to keep the body temperature lower than 39 °C.
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Give paracetamol to the patient
suffering from a high fever, but not more than four times in a day.
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Determine the blood platelet
count and hematocrit count in the patient's body through regular tests, as a drop in platelets and a rise in haematocrits are important for an early diagnosis
of Dengue Fever.
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Platelet transfusion is
advised if platelets fall consecutively, but as per the doctor's advice and your
medical history. Continuous monitoring of the health of the patient is of utmost importance.
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It is essential to give a large
amount of fluids like juice, milk, water, and soup to dengue patients along
with their normal diet.
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Keep your surroundings clean
and hygienic.
What not to do in Dengue Fever
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Never give antibiotics to
dengue patients.
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Never give Brufen or Aspirin to a patient suffering from a high fever.
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Avoid use of steroids. They do
not provide any benefit in the treatment of dengue fever.
FAQs About Dengue
Can a person get dengue more than once?
Yes, a person can get dengue more than once because there are four different types of the dengue virus. Getting one type doesn't protect you from the others.
How can we protect our families from dengue in India?
In India, you should use mosquito nets, wear long-sleeved clothes, and use mosquito repellents. Also, be sure to empty and clean any water containers in and around your home every week to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Is there a vaccine for dengue?
Yes, there is a dengue vaccine available in some places. However, it is mostly for people who have already had a dengue infection and lived in areas where the disease is common. Always talk to a doctor about whether the vaccine is right for you.
What is the most common symptom of dengue?
The most common symptoms of dengue are a sudden high fever, a very bad headache, and severe body aches, which is why it's also called "breakbone fever." You may also see a skin rash and feel very tired.
References -
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue
https://ncvbdc.mohfw.gov.in/
