With dengue cases on the rise, it’s crucial for parents to be vigilant when their child has a fever, especially during the current outbreak. Dengue, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, can become serious if not treated promptly. Here’s how to recognize the symptoms in children and when to seek medical help.
How to Identify Dengue Symptoms in Children
Dengue in children typically progresses in three phases:
1. Febrile Phase (High Fever Stage):
This phase lasts two to seven days. During this time, children experience:
- High fever
- Severe headaches and body aches
- Small children may cry for no apparent reason
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sometimes, a red rash may appear on the skin
2. Critical Phase:
In this phase, the fever may start to decrease, but some children may develop more serious symptoms, such as:
- Extreme fatigue
- Itchy skin
- Bleeding from the nose or gums, or blood in urine or vomit
- Red spots or bruising on the body
- Restlessness or irritability
- Abdominal swelling or bloating due to fluid accumulation
- Low blood pressure, cold hands and feet
- Weak pulse, which can indicate life-threatening complications
3. Recovery Phase:
If the child passes through the critical phase without complications, they will begin to recover in two to three days, gradually regaining strength.
What to Do If Your Child Has a Fever
- Continue with regular daily care such as bathing and feeding, including foods rich in Vitamin C like oranges or other citrus fruits.
- Encourage plenty of fluids—water, coconut water, and fresh fruit juices. It’s essential to provide oral rehydration solutions (ORS) daily.
- To reduce fever, give paracetamol as prescribed by a doctor. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention
Seek medical help immediately if your child shows any of the following signs:
- Extreme weakness or cold hands and feet
- Persistent vomiting
- Fewer than usual wet diapers or no urination for 8–10 hours
- Blood in vomit, urine, or stool, or bleeding from the nose or gums
- Black or tar-like stool
- Unusual bruising or red spots under the skin
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Teenage girls experiencing excessive menstrual bleeding or unusual bleeding
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, don’t delay—take them to the hospital immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and save lives.