Dengue Alert: Early Signs and Prevention Tips
Pranit More, a popular contestant from 'Bigg Boss 19', has recently been diagnosed with dengue fever, which has once again brought attention to the public health issue of this seasonal disease in India. As the monsoon season unfolds, rising humidity levels and stagnant water create an ideal breeding ground for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, responsible for spreading dengue.
Doctors are sounding alarms as dengue cases are reportedly increasing at an unusual rate this year. Dr. Neha Sharma, an attending consultant at Fortis Hospital in Gurugram, indicates that the prolonged rains and high humidity have led to a surge in infections. She stresses that dengue is more than just a fever; it has the potential to affect vital organs like the liver and can lead to severe complications if left untreated.
Urban areas, particularly Delhi, Gurugram, and Mumbai, are facing heightened vulnerability. Dr. Sharma points out that water accumulation in flowerpots, air cooler trays, and construction sites has become a significant source of dengue transmission. A single neglected water source can potentially infect multiple households, which emphasizes the need for vigilance.
Symptoms of dengue typically appear 4 to 7 days after a mosquito bite. While fever is the most apparent symptom, it often comes with severe body aches, headaches, pain behind the eyes, nausea, and fatigue. Many individuals mistakenly dismiss these symptoms as common viral fever, leading to delays in necessary testing and treatment.
Dr. Sharma urges that if fever persists for more than 48 hours or if any severe symptoms arise, immediate blood tests, including a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and a Dengue NS1 antigen test, should be conducted for accurate diagnosis. She also warns against self-medication, particularly the use of painkillers like ibuprofen, which can worsen internal bleeding in dengue patients.
Instead, she recommends early medical consultations and staying hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate the disease. In moderate to severe cases, hospitalization may be required to manage platelet levels and monitor liver function effectively.
With dengue cases peaking during the post-monsoon period, prevention is the best strategy. Regular cleaning of air conditioning filters and drain trays, often overlooked, is crucial as they can harbor mosquito eggs. Dengue is not merely a seasonal fever; it is a serious illness that can escalate rapidly if ignored.
As Dr. Sharma emphasizes, early testing can save lives. The sooner dengue is identified, the easier it is to prevent serious complications. If you experience fever and fatigue this season, don’t take it lightly. Stay alert, hydrated, and proactive in the fight against dengue.
