How to Protect Your Child from Dengue: Prevention and Management

With the increase in reported cases of dengue in South Asia, it's crucial to understand how to keep your child safe from this potentially severe disease. Particularly concerning is the rise in cases among children, a group that is more vulnerable to the complications of the infection.

Understanding Dengue

Dengue is a flu-like illness spread by the bite of a Aedes mosquito. Most infections are asymptomatic, but severe cases can lead to hospitalization and even death. Understanding the transmission and symptoms of dengue is vital in preventing and managing the disease.

How Dengue Spreads

Transmission occurs when an Aedes mosquito bites an infected person, then carries the dengue virus to another person through subsequent bites. Common regions for dengue outbreaks include areas with stagnant and contaminated water, and the risk is highest during the monsoon season.

Recognizing Dengue Symptoms in Children

The symptoms of dengue can mimic other common illnesses, making diagnosis challenging. However, understanding the typical symptoms can help you identify the need for medical attention.

Common Symptoms of Dengue:

A sudden high fever (up to 40°C) Severe headache and eye pain Pain behind the eyes Severe muscle and joint pain Nausea and vomiting Swollen glands Skin rash Restlessness, irritability in children

Severe dengue can develop rapidly, leading to life-threatening complications. Identifying the signs of severe dengue early and taking immediate steps to seek medical attention can save lives.

Managing Mild Dengue

Most people with mild dengue can manage their symptoms at home, following a few key steps:

Rest Maintain hydration by drinking plenty of fluids Eat nutritious foods Take paracetamol for pain and fever, as recommended by a healthcare professional Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin due to their risk of increasing bleeding

Monitoring for severe symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly if any develop is crucial.

Preventing Dengue Infections

Preventing mosquito bites is the most effective way to avoid dengue. Here are some key strategies to reduce your child's exposure to Aedes mosquitoes:

Avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito hours (2 hours after sunrise and just before sunset) Wear loose, long-sleeved clothing and full shoes Use mosquito repellents, especially those containing DEET Hang mosquito coils and use air conditioning, keeping windows and doors closed Use mosquito nets and ensure doors and windows have screens Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by clearing stagnant water in your environment

Following these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of your child contracting dengue.

The Impact of Climate Change on Dengue

Alarmingly, climate change is a key factor in the rise of dengue cases. Warmer temperatures and prolonged monsoons are creating more favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. Due to these changes, dengue is spreading even to higher elevations, and the situation is expected to worsen in the coming months.

To stay informed and take necessary precautions, it is important to follow local health authority guidelines and be aware of the dengue situation in your area.

Conclusion

Although dengue can be severe, especially in children, the good news is that it is preventable. By understanding the infection, recognizing symptoms early, and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your child contracting this dangerous disease.