Dr Seema P Mahant said mosquito-borne diseases continue to pose a public health challenge in India, stressing the need for early symptom identification and timely medical care to prevent dangerous complications. According to a press release from the institute, the guidance was issued during an awareness programme organized by the department of general medicine on World Mosquito Day. Faculty members, resident doctors, nursing staff, and medical students attended the event to promote preventive measures.
Recognizing Dengue and Viral Fever Symptoms
Dengue and common viral infections can initially look very similar, making clinical distinction difficult based on symptoms alone. Viral fever typically brings a cough, cold, sore throat, body ache, fatigue, headache, and sometimes loose motions or vomiting. These respiratory symptoms are often more prominent in viral infections, and the fever generally improves gradually over a few days with rest, fluids, and symptomatic treatment.
Dengue, transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, causes a sudden high-grade fever accompanied by severe headache, marked body ache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. Because symptoms overlap significantly, blood tests interpreted according to the day of illness are often required for an accurate diagnosis.
Did you know?
Dengue can become more dangerous around the time the fever starts to settle. Patients may mistakenly think they are recovering when the critical phase is actually beginning.
Critical Warning Signs and When to See a Doctor
Medical experts emphasize that persistent fever during dengue season always requires professional evaluation. A patient may appear to improve as their temperature drops, but that transition can mark the start of the critical phase.
- Difficulty breathing
- Cold or clammy skin
Medication and Hydration Precautions
Managing fever safely requires strict adherence to clinical guidance. Paracetamol is generally preferred for fever when recommended at proper doses.
Adequate hydration using water, oral rehydration solutions, and soups helps prevent dehydration. However, excessive fluid intake without medical supervision can cause complications. Furthermore, doctors advise against self-medicating based solely on platelet counts, as falling platelets are common in dengue, but overall severity depends on multiple clinical parameters, including blood pressure, hydration, and urine output.
Pro Tip
Never take ibuprofen or aspirin for a monsoon fever before consulting a healthcare professional, as these medications can heighten the risk of bleeding if the infection turns out to be dengue.
Institutional Prevention Efforts at AIIMS Bhopal
At the AIIMS Bhopal awareness event, medical experts detailed targeted prevention strategies. Dr Seema P Mahant called for greater public awareness, proactive mosquito control measures, and prompt medical consultations to tackle the ongoing public health threat of vector-borne illnesses, according to the institute’s press release.
Dr Anamika focused on malaria prevention, stressing the importance of identifying symptoms early and securing prompt treatment. Meanwhile, Dr Ankit Das outlined preventive measures, early detection strategies, and appropriate treatment protocols for dengue. The institute’s sessions highlighted that stopping mosquito breeding and seeking immediate medical help at the first sign of illness are essential for reducing the health impact of these diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tell if I have dengue or a viral fever based on symptoms alone?
Which painkillers should be avoided during a monsoon fever?
Patients should avoid aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen until dengue is ruled out, as these medications can increase bleeding risks. Paracetamol is typically preferred under medical guidance.
What are the critical warning signs of severe dengue?
Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or nose, unusual drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and a significant drop in urine output. These symptoms demand immediate emergency care.
Why is a falling platelet count not the only measure of dengue severity?
While platelet counts often drop during dengue, doctors evaluate overall severity using multiple clinical parameters, including blood pressure, hydration, and urine output, rather than relying on a single lab report.
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