What to Do if My Child Has Dengue: Guidance from a Pediatrician

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. As a concerned parent, recognizing the signs and taking prompt action is crucial. Here’s a guide from a pediatric perspective on what to do if you suspect your child has dengue.

1. Recognize the Symptoms:
       – Sudden onset of high fever: Lasting for 2-7 days .
       – Severe headache, eye pain: Often described as pain behind the eyes .
       – Muscle and joint pains: Sometimes coined as “breakbone fever” due to the pain severity .
       – Rash: Which may spread to most parts of the body .
       – Nausea or vomiting.
2. Consult a Pediatrician/Doctor  Immediately: If you suspect your child has dengue, it’s essential to seek medical care immediately. A timely diagnosis can prevent complications and guide appropriate treatment.
3. Make the Diagnosis: dengue can be suspected from symptoms and signs,  but confirmation and mongering is done by blood test that are ordered by your doctor .
4. Prevent Further Mosquito Bites: A person with dengue can transmit the virus to mosquitoes, which can then infect others.

Treating a Child with Dengue

Treating dengue in children requires special attention due to their unique medical needs.  I offer the following recommendations:

1. Avoid Certain Medications: Refrain from giving aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase bleeding risk. Paracetamol is generally preferred, but always consult a doctor for dosage.
2. Hydrate: Encouraging your child to drink fluids is paramount. This can include water, oral rehydration solutions, or broths. It helps prevent dehydration and aids in fever management.
3. Pain Management: If your child experiences pain or high fever,. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generally considered safe, but always follow dosage recommendations. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can exacerbate symptoms or lead to bleeding.
4. Monitor for Warning Signs: Parents should be vigilant about severe dengue symptoms, such as:
   1. Persistent vomiting
   2. Rapid breathing
   3. Bleeding from the gums or nose
   4. Fatigue or restlessness.
5. Diet: Provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and easily digestible foods. Nutritional support can aid in recovery.
6. Rest: Ensure your child gets ample rest. Their body needs energy to combat the virus and heal.

How to Prevent My Children from Getting Dengue from Each Other: A Pediatrician’s Advice

I offer the following preventive measures to keep your entire family safe:

1. Isolate Sleeping Areas: If one child is diagnosed with dengue:
   Have them sleep separately, preferably in a room with netting or screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
   Use mosquito nets around their bed to further reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
2. Use Mosquito Repellents:
   Apply pediatric-approved mosquito repellent on all your children, especially the one infected, to prevent mosquito bites.
   Remember to reapply as per the product’s guidelines.
3. Dress Them Appropriately:
   Ensure all children, especially the infected one, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, reducing exposed skin where mosquitoes can bite.
4. Limit Outdoor Activity during Peak Hours: Mosquitoes that transmit dengue are most active during early morning and late afternoon. Limit your children’s outdoor play during these times.
5. Maintain a Clean Environment:
   Ensure your home is free of stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Regularly check and empty flower pots, tires, buckets, and any other container that might hold water.
   Use larvicides or sand to prevent water accumulation in outdoor plants and objects.
6. Use Mosquito Screens and Nets:
   Install screens on windows and doors. Ensure they are free from holes or gaps.
   For added protection, especially at night, use mosquito nets around the beds of all your children.
7. Educate Your Children: Talk to your children about the importance of avoiding mosquito bites and teach them to come to you if they notice any mosquitoes in the house or if they get bitten.
8. Indoor Fogging: If dengue is prevalent in your area and one of your children is infected, consider indoor fogging to kill any mosquitoes inside the house.
9. Regular Health Monitoring: Regularly check all your children for symptoms of dengue, even if they haven’t been diagnosed. Early detection can lead to prompt treatment and reduce complications.