Dengue in Delhi – A Seasonal Concern
Dengue is a major public health concern in Delhi, with peak outbreaks during and after the monsoon season (July–November). Children are particularly vulnerable. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, our paediatric team is experienced in dengue management and knows when home care is sufficient vs when hospitalisation is needed.
Dengue Fever – Clinical Features
- Sudden onset high fever (39–40°C)
- Severe headache and retro-orbital pain (behind the eyes)
- Severe body and joint/muscle aches (“bone-breaking fever”)
- Skin rash (appears 2–5 days after fever onset)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mild bleeding (nose bleeds, gum bleeding, easy bruising)
Warning Signs of Severe Dengue (Emergency)
- Abdominal pain or tenderness
- Persistent vomiting (>3 in 24 hours)
- Bleeding from any site
- Restlessness or lethargy
- Rapid breathing
- Rapid deterioration despite defervescence
- Liver enlargement >2 cm
Diagnosis
NS1 antigen (first 5 days), Dengue IgM/IgG antibodies (after day 5), Complete Blood Count (CBC) – platelet count and haematocrit monitoring essential, Liver function tests.
Management
Home Management (No Warning Signs)
- Paracetamol for fever – NEVER aspirin or ibuprofen (risk of bleeding)
- Adequate oral fluids (ORS, coconut water, fresh juices)
- Rest
- Monitor platelet count daily if low
- Return to doctor if warning signs develop
Hospital Management
- IV fluid therapy for plasma leakage
- Careful fluid balance monitoring
- Platelet transfusion if <10,000 with bleeding
Prevention
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (stagnant water)
- Use mosquito repellents and protective clothing
- Dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia) – for those with prior dengue infection
Dengue management at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
