Dengue Fever in Children: A Complete Guide for Parents

The rainy season is synonymous with an increase in dengue fever (DHF) cases, including in children. The disease is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted through the bites of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.

Symptoms of DHF in children can resemble other diseases, such as flu or typhoid, so it is important for mothers to know what to do.

Here are some signs and symptoms of DHF in children:

50. High fever of up to 39°C for 2-7 days
50. Headache
50. Muscle and joint pain
50. Skin rash
50. Nausea and vomiting
50. Minor bleeding, such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums
50. In severe cases, the child may experience shock and internal bleeding

If your child shows any of the above symptoms, take the following steps immediately:

1. Take the child to the doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

The doctor will conduct a physical examination and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis of DHF. They will also administer medications to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

2. Make sure the child drinks plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Give water, fruit juice or ORS. Avoid soft drinks and caffeine.

3. Rest the child in a comfortable and cool place.

Let your child get enough sleep to help their recovery.

4. Monitor the child's condition closely.

Call a doctor immediately if your child has a high fever that does not go down, persistent vomiting, or signs of bleeding.

Here are some steps to prevent dengue in children:

1. 3M Plus:

50. Drain bathtubs, troughs, and other water reservoirs at least once a week.
50. Close water containers tightly.
50. Bury used items that can collect rainwater.
50. Place abate (larvicide) in water reservoirs.

2. Use mosquito nets when sleeping.

3. Wear clothes that cover the whole body when traveling to places with many mosquitoes.

4. Apply child-safe insect repellent.

5. Clean the home environment from stagnant water.

6. Do fogging regularly.

Additional tips:

50. Consult your pediatrician about dengue vaccination. DHF vaccination can help protect your child from this disease.
50. Give your child nutritious food to boost his/her immune system.
50. Teach your child to always maintain personal hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and running water after activities.

With proper vigilance and preventive measures, moms can help keep your child healthy during the rainy season.