Dengue in Children: Symptoms, Warning Signs & Treatment

By Dashvanth Healthcare Medical Team · Reviewed by our specialists · East Delhi

Dengue in Children: Why Extra Vigilance Matters

Dengue fever caused by Aedes mosquito bites is endemic in Delhi, especially June–October. Children are at higher risk of severe dengue (dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome) than adults.

Dengue Phases in Children

Febrile Phase (Days 1–3)

• High fever (39–40°C), often sudden onset
• Severe body aches, headache, pain behind eyes
• Flushed face, rash may begin

Critical Phase (Days 4–6)

• Fever may seem to improve — but this is when complications can develop
• Plasma leakage can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, rapid breathing
• Platelet count falls rapidly
• Warning signs (see below) emerge

Recovery Phase (Days 7–10)

• Reabsorption of leaked fluid — risk of fluid overload in hospitalised children
• Appetite returns, platelet count rises

Warning Signs — Hospitalise Immediately

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting (>3 times/day)
• Rapid breathing, difficulty breathing
• Bleeding from nose, gums, blood in urine/stool
• Lethargy, restlessness, or confusion
• Liver enlargement
• Platelet count <20,000/μL or falling rapidly

Home Management (Mild Dengue)

• Paracetamol only for fever — NO ibuprofen or aspirin (increases bleeding risk)
• Oral rehydration: encourage fluids (ORS, coconut water, soups)
• Rest; monitor for warning signs
• Daily CBC monitoring (watch platelet trend)