Dengue Fever in Baby: Symptoms, Care, and Prevention
When dengue fever threatens the health of your baby, quick understanding of the symptoms and immediate action are vital. This focused guide provides important information on identifying dengue fever in babies, navigating the steps for prompt treatment, and taking crucial preventive measures to shield your infant from this serious illness. Let’s get started!
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, commonly found in tropical regions including:
- Puerto Rico
- American Samoa
- U.S. Virgin Islands
- Central and South America
- Africa
- Asia
These regions are known hotspots for dengue transmission. Each year, approximately 400 million individuals worldwide contract dengue fever, with many cases showing no symptoms. The dengue virus has four different types (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4), all capable of causing dengue fever.
Why are Babies at Risk for Dengue?
Babies are at higher risk for dengue because their immune systems are still developing, which makes it harder for their bodies to fight off the virus. This puts them at greater risk for serious complications.
Several factors also increase the likelihood of severe dengue in children:
- Age: Infants and children under 5 years old are more susceptible.
- Gender: Females may be more prone to severe dengue.
- Obesity: Being overweight can contribute to increased severity.
- Secondary Infection: Having a second dengue infection can lead to more severe symptoms.
Dengue shock syndrome (DSS), a severe complication, is more common in younger children. It's crucial to monitor infants and young children closely for symptoms of dengue to ensure timely medical intervention and prevent serious outcomes.
Are Mosquitoes Attracted to Certain Blood Types?
Research suggests that mosquitoes may show varying levels of attraction to different blood types. Studies have indicated that individuals with blood type O may be more attractive to certain mosquitoes compared to other blood types (B, AB, and A). However, these findings are not conclusive and further research is needed to better understand the relationship between blood types and mosquito attraction.
6 Warning Signs of Dengue Fever in Babies You Should Know!
1. High Fever
The initial symptom of dengue in babies is often a sudden high fever, which can reach up to 40°C.The fever usually persists for a period of 2 to 7 days.
2. Rash
A characteristic dengue rash may appear a few days after the fever starts. It can begin as a faint pink rash on the face and spread to other parts of the body. In some cases, the rash may become more pronounced and blotchy.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
Babies might show signs of nausea, which can include refusal to eat, persistent crying, or actual vomiting. They may also exhibit symptoms like diarrhoea.
4. Severe Headache
Babies may show signs of distress or discomfort, indicating a severe headache. They may cry inconsolably or appear unusually agitated.
5. Pain Behind the Eyes
Babies with dengue fever may also exhibit signs of pain behind the eyes, which can contribute to increased fussiness or discomfort.
6. Severe Pain in Bones, Muscles, and Joints
Babies may demonstrate signs of significant pain in their bones, muscles, and joints, which can be observed through increased irritability or reluctance to move certain body parts.
Recognising and treating these early symptoms promptly is crucial to manage the disease effectively and prevent complications.
How is Dengue Fever Diagnosed in Babies?
Diagnosing dengue fever in babies involves a few important steps:
- Checking Symptoms: The doctor will ask about your baby's symptoms and look for signs like fever, rash, or unusual bleeding.
- Specific Blood Tests(IgM Antibody Test, NS1 test): These tests check for the dengue virus.
- Complete Blood Count(CBC): This test checks the levels of different blood cells and platelets in your baby's blood to help diagnose dengue fever.
Depending on the symptoms, more tests may be done to assess any complications.
If you suspect your baby has dengue fever, see a doctor right away! Early diagnosis and care are crucial for managing the illness effectively.
Managing Dengue Fever in Babies
Unfortunately, there's no specific medicine to treat dengue fever in babies. However, you can help your baby feel better with these steps:
Hydration: Make sure your baby drinks lots of fluids to stay hydrated. Offer breast milk or formula frequently.
Rest: Let your baby rest in a comfortable place to help with recovery.
Pain Relief: If your baby has a headache or is in pain, give them acetaminophen (paracetamol) under the guidance of a doctor. Avoid giving aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can cause bleeding.
Most babies with dengue fever start feeling better within a week or two. But it's important to call the doctor right away if your baby's symptoms get worse after the fever goes away. This could be a sign of a more serious condition like Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF).
Remember, early medical attention is important if you're concerned about your baby's health.
Preventive Measures Against Dengue Fever
Preventing dengue fever starts with avoiding mosquito bites, especially when it comes to protecting our children. Here are practical steps we can take to keep mosquitoes away and reduce the risk of dengue:
- Use Mosquito Repellent
Apply mosquito repellent recommended for children by healthcare experts. Look for products with DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 for babies over 2 months old.
- Cover Up
Dress babies in loose, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, and socks when outdoors to minimise exposed skin.
- Use Mosquito Nets
Cover cribs, strollers, and infant carriers with mosquito netting to create a barrier against mosquitoes.
Is Your Baby Protected Today?
In this article, we’ve journeyed through the complexities of dengue fever in infants, exploring its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Remember, knowledge is power. Armed with this information, you’re better equipped to protect your child from dengue and support them if they’re affected. Seek medical attention promptly if needed to ensure the health and well-being of your little one. The fight against dengue is a challenging one, but together we can make a difference.
This article is reviewed and endorsed by Dr. Mohd Izzat Amir Bin Awang, a General Health (GP) physician at Klinik Ikram, Sentul.
References
- Jabatan Kesihatan Negeri Johor“CPG Management of Dengue in Children.” , https://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/CPG/Infectious%20Disease/CPG_Management_of_Dengue_in_Children_06072021.pdf. Accessed 15 May 2024.
- “Your Infant has Dengue | Dengue | CDC.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 31 October 2019, https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/symptoms/infant.html. Accessed 15 May 2024.
- World Health Organization (WHO)“Dengue and severe dengue.” , 23 April 2024, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue. Accessed 15 May 2024.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention“Caring for a Child or Family Member Sick with Dengue | Dengue | CDC.” , 31 October 2019, https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/symptoms/family.html. Accessed 15 May 2024.
- “Supportive Therapy - Dengue Treatment.” MIMS, https://www.mims.com/specialty/dengue/treatment/supportive%20therapy?channel=infectious-diseases. Accessed 15 May 2024.
- “Dengue Treatment.” MIMS, https://www.mims.com/specialty/dengue/treatment. Accessed 15 May 2024.
- “Risk factors for shock in children with dengue fever.” NCBI, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4687175/. Accessed 15 May 2024.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
Written By Dr Shobika Nair, Doctor of Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Russia on
Reviewed By DoctorOnCall Panel Doctor
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