Monsoon fever vs. dengue: Expert-approved tips for prevention and treatment

Monsoon fevers typically last for a few days to a week and improve with symptomatic treatment and rest while dengue fever lasts 2-7 days and recovery phase can take a few weeks. (Image: Canva)

Monsoon season brings relief from the scorching heat, but it also ushers in a spike in vector-borne diseases like dengue and general monsoon fevers. Differentiating between the two can be challenging yet crucial for timely treatment. Here are the key insights from doctors on how to tell them apart.

Understanding monsoon fever

Monsoon fever is a broad term encompassing various viral infections prevalent during the rainy season. These infections are typically caused by changes in weather, water stagnation, and increased mosquito breeding, says Dr Pawan Kumar Goyal, senior director-internal medicine, Fortis hospital, Shalimar Bagh.

Common symptoms

Mild to high-grade fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, body aches and fatigue, mild headache.

Key point: Monsoon fever generally has a gradual onset and is often accompanied by respiratory symptoms like a cough or cold.

Understanding dengue

Dengue is a specific viral infection caused by the dengue virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly, says Dr Goyal.

Common symptoms

Sudden high fever (104°F/40°C), severe headache, pain behind the eyes, severe joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, skin rash appearing 2-5 days after the fever starts, mild bleeding (nose or gums) are common symptoms.

Key point: Dengue usually presents with a sudden onset of high fever and is characterised by more severe symptoms compared to typical monsoon fevers.

Duration and progression

Monsoon fevers: Monsoon fevers typically last for a few days to a week and improve with symptomatic treatment and rest.

Dengue fever duration: Acute phase lasts 2-7 days and recovery phase can take a few weeks, with lingering fatigue.

Key point: If a fever persists beyond a week or worsens, it’s advisable to seek medical attention for possible dengue.

Blood test differentiation

A complete blood count (CBC) can help differentiate between monsoon fever and dengue.

Monsoon fever: It may show normal or slightly elevated white blood cell count.

Dengue fever: Often presents with a significant drop in platelet count and white blood cells (leukopenia), along with elevated liver enzymes.

Key point: A specific test for dengue (NS1 antigen test) can confirm the diagnosis within the first few days of fever onset.

Treatment protocols

Monsoon fever treatment: Rest and hydration is the key. Also, over-the-counter fever reducers (paracetamol) works. It is also advisable for symptomatic treatment for cough and cold.

Dengue treatment: No specific antiviral treatment, supportive care is crucial. Maintaining hydration is vital to avoid complications. Hospitalisation may be required in severe cases for platelet transfusion and monitoring

Key point: Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen in suspected dengue cases as they can increase bleeding risk.

Preventive measures

Preventing both monsoon fever and dengue involves similar strategies, says Dr Goyal. Use mosquito repellents and nets, eliminate standing water to reduce mosquito breeding, maintain good hygiene and avoid exposure to rain, wear long-sleeved clothing to minimise mosquito bites.