Dengue symptoms in children: Home remedies for mild dengue in kids, prevention tips

Ensure your child stays hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Water is essential, but electrolyte solutions like oral rehydration salts (ORS) can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes (Image: Canva)

Fever, severe headaches, and joint pain: these are not just signs of a common cold in children but could indicate something more serious. It could be dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti.

These mosquitoes thrive in urban habitats and breed in stagnant water, making children vulnerable, especially in tropical and subtropical climates. The virus exists in four serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4), and infection with one serotype does not provide immunity against the others, increasing the risk of multiple infections.

Mild cases of dengue in children can often be managed at home with supportive care. According to UNICEF, children with mild symptoms like fever and muscle pain can be treated with pain relievers such as paracetamol. It's essential to monitor their condition closely as they gradually recover.

Here are a few ways to treat mild dengue in children:

Time to recharge: Rest plays a vital role in recovery. Encourage your child to rest adequately to bolster their body's ability to combat the infection. A calm environment promotes healing and prevents exertion that could worsen symptoms.

Keep them hydrated: Ensure your child stays hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Water is essential, but electrolyte solutions like oral rehydration salts (ORS) can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, vital for maintaining hydration levels during fever and sweating.

Feed nutritious food: Offer nutritious meals to support their immune system. Small, frequent meals rich in vitamins (like vitamin C and B complex) and minerals (such as zinc) aid in recovery and replenish nutrients lost during illness. Include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into their diet for quick recovery.

Manage pain and fever: Use paracetamol under medical guidance to reduce pain and fever. It's essential to follow the doctor’s instructions on dosage and frequency strictly. Avoid medications like ibuprofen and aspirin, which can increase the risk of bleeding in dengue patients.

Lend comfort: Apply cool compresses or sponge your child with lukewarm water to reduce fever and provide comfort. Avoid cold water to prevent shivering, which can elevate body temperature.

Monitoring for severe symptoms:

Keep a close watch for signs of severe dengue, including severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms manifest, seek immediate medical attention without delay to ensure prompt intervention and management.

Responding to severe symptoms:

Symptoms of severe dengue can escalate rapidly, leading to a life-threatening condition known as dengue hemorrhagic fever. If your child develops severe symptoms, do not hesitate to seek urgent medical care. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

Prevention tips:

To protect children from dengue fever, parents should use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin, ensure kids wear long-sleeved clothing and use bed nets, and eliminate stagnant water around the home. Staying informed about local outbreaks and advocating for community mosquito control are also crucial steps in preventing the spread of the disease.