Dengue Fever In Children | All You Need To Know

As the monsoon is approaching, there will be many cases of illness where you need to be safe and take precautions from the start. In this regard, dengue fever is one of the most common illnesses in India. It generally spreads through the bite of a mosquito called Aedes aegyptiWhile dengue can affect anyone, children are more vulnerable as their immune systems are still developing. Read the blog given below where we will talk about dengue in children, common signs to look out for, and how to prevent. 

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue is a viral illness caused by the dengue virus. It spreads when an infected mosquito bites a person. It is not spread by drinking water, food, or touching someone. The illness can range from mild fever to severe complications if not treated in time. That’s why early detection and care are very important.

How Do Children Get Dengue?

Children get dengue the same way adults do, through a mosquito bite. These mosquitoes usually bite during the day, especially early morning and before sunset.

If there’s stagnant water near your home (in buckets, coolers, flower pots), mosquitoes can breed and increase the risk of dengue.

Signs and Symptoms of Dengue in Children

Here are some common signs of dengue fever in kids:

  • High fever (above 101°F or 38.5°C) lasting more than two days
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Headache and body pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Red rashes on the body
  • Bleeding from nose or gums (in severe cases)
  • Feeling weak or tired all the time

If you see these symptoms, visit a doctor and get a blood test done.

What to Do If Your Child Has Dengue?

If your child is diagnosed with dengue, don’t panic. Most cases can be managed at home with proper care and rest.

  1. Give Plenty of Fluids: Make sure your child drinks lots of fluids—water, coconut water, soups, and fruit juices. This helps prevent dehydration.
  2. Use Paracetamol Only: Do not give ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can cause bleeding. Paracetamol helps reduce fever and is safe for children.
  3. Let Them Rest: Let your child take plenty of rest to help the body fight the virus. Don’t send them to school or play outside.
  4. Monitor Warning Signs: If you notice unusual bleeding, black stools, severe stomach pain, or the child becomes drowsy or confused, rush to the hospital.

How to Prevent Dengue in Children?

Prevention is the best way to protect your child from dengue:

  • Keep your house and surroundings clean
  • Remove stagnant water from containers, pots, and coolers
  • Use mosquito nets or repellents, especially during the day
  • Dress children in long-sleeved clothes and full pants
  • Close doors and windows before sunset to stop mosquitoes from entering

FAQs

  1. Can dengue spread from one child to another?
    No. Dengue does not spread from child to child. It spreads only through mosquito bites.
  2. Is dengue dangerous for small children?
    It can be, especially if not treated on time. But with early care and rest, most children recover completely.
  3. How many days does dengue fever last in children?
    Usually, the fever lasts for 3 to 7 days. Full recovery may take 1 to 2 weeks depending on the severity.
  4. Is there a vaccine for dengue?
    Currently, there is no widely available vaccine for dengue in India. Prevention through mosquito control is the best method.

Conclusion

Dengue fever can be scary, especially when it affects children. But with early signs, timely care, and prevention, you can protect your child. Always keep your surroundings clean and stay alert during monsoon months. If you ever feel unsure, consult a doctor without delay. Your child’s health is always worth the extra care.

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