Every year, as soon as the monsoon begins, fear of dengue rises anew in the country. Because of the rain, Aedes mosquitoes breed more in clean water collecting in various places, and the risk of dengue infection rises quickly. According to doctors, some changes are now being seen in dengue’s symptoms and in the nature of the disease compared with before. Earlier, many regarded a high fever of 104 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit as the main symptom of dengue. But now many patients may not have a high fever at all, and can develop serious complications even with a moderate or comparatively low fever. Some may have symptoms such as body ache, headache, pain behind the eyes, vomiting, severe weakness, abdominal pain or reddish marks on the skin.
Why dengue is now in disguise
Because several dengue serotypes are active at once, the nature of the disease has changed. Many patients now have only a mild fever, a short-lived fever or merely a feverish feeling. Patients and relatives therefore think, “It is only a slight fever, it will pass on its own.” But it is precisely this neglect that is delaying the detection of dengue and increasing the risk of serious complications.
When is the most dangerous time?
Do not relax as soon as the fever comes down. In dengue the fever subsides by itself after three to seven days. In medical science this is called the “critical phase,” or dangerous period. In the one to two days after the fever falls, the risk of plasma leaking from the blood vessels, internal bleeding or shock is highest. At this time the patient may seem well from the outside while their condition deteriorates rapidly within.
Never ignore these symptoms
Whether or not there is a fever, go to the nearest hospital without delay if any of the following symptoms appear:
Repeated vomiting: vomiting more than three times a day, being unable to keep anything down.
Severe abdominal pain: particularly a gripping pain on the right side of the abdomen. This is a sign of a swollen liver.
Extreme weakness: being unable to stand up, or collapsing suddenly.
Breathing difficulty or unusual drowsiness: restlessness, agitation or excessive sleepiness.
A rash on the body, or bleeding from the gums or nose.
Prevention: give Aedes no place
The main source of dengue is the Aedes mosquito, which lays its eggs in clean, standing water. Water collecting in flower pots, air-conditioner drip, tyres, coconut shells and under construction materials is the Aedes mosquito’s breeding ground.
What to do
One day every week, throw out standing water from everywhere in the house.
Avoid mosquito bites: wear full-sleeved clothes during the day, particularly in the morning and afternoon. Use a mosquito net or repellent.
Get tested quickly: an NS1 test within the first five days of fever confirms dengue quickly.
What not to do
Do not take painkillers such as diclofenac, ibuprofen or aspirin to bring down a fever without a doctor’s advice. These increase the risk of bleeding in dengue many times over. Only paracetamol is safe for fever.
Finally
Dengue calls not for panic but for the right measures at the right time. Even if the fever is mild, and even after the fever has gone, one must read the body’s language. A little delay can take a patient as far as the ICU. Remember that only the combined effort of the individual, the family and society can halt the spread of the Aedes mosquito. Be aware, stay safe.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report