World Mosquito Day 2025: Symptoms of dengue in children, how to prevent complications

Symptoms of dengue in children: Abdominal pain, poor appetite, or unexplained vomiting are red flags. Many parents mistake these for gastric infections when dengue may be at play (Image: Pexels)

Among the many seasonal illnesses that trouble Indian households, dengue fever stands out as a growing concern. Increasingly, children are at the centre of this health crisis. Their still-developing immune systems, and often atypical symptoms make them especially vulnerable. Recognising how dengue presents differently in children is essential to safeguarding young lives.

Doctors point out that dengue’s impact on children is not just about size or age but about biology. “Children’s immune systems are still maturing. When infected with the dengue virus, their bodies sometimes respond in an exaggerated manner, leading to complications like plasma leakage and shock,” explains Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram.

With limited blood volume compared to adults, even a small disturbance can tip the balance quickly. This is why dengue in children can become severe in hours, not days.

Also read | Early symptoms of dengue you should never ignore

The challenge is also in spotting the illness early. Unlike adults, who often present with the “classic dengue picture” of high fever, severe headache, and joint pain, children may appear merely tired, complain of stomach aches, or refuse food. Mild fever and vomiting are common early signs.

Parents may dismiss these as minor viral infections, but delay can prove dangerous. “If a child’s fever continues for more than two days, or warning signs like abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or drowsiness appear, medical attention should not be postponed,” stresses Dr Tayal.

10 ways to prevent dengue in children:

• Monitor subtle fevers: Children may not always spike high fevers; sometimes it’s a mild, nagging rise that lingers quietly without drawing immediate attention.

• Notice unusual tiredness: A child lying listless, skipping play, or refusing school may be showing early signs, even before stronger dengue symptoms appear clearly.

• Check for stomach complaints: Abdominal pain, poor appetite, or unexplained vomiting are red flags. Many parents mistake these for gastric infections when dengue may be at play.

Also read | Dengue vs viral fever: How to identify different symptoms, why self-medication is risk

• Don’t ignore bleeding clues: Bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or tiny skin spots should never be dismissed. These may signal the onset of dengue’s dangerous complications in children.

• Remember dehydration risk: Children lose fluids faster than adults. Dengue-induced vomiting and poor intake can worsen dehydration, making hospitalisation more urgent for stabilisation and rehydration.

• Be alert during outbreaks: If dengue cases are rising in your city or school, treat any prolonged fever in children with caution and seek medical checks promptly.

• Look beyond the signs: Joint pain and severe headaches may be absent. Instead, vague irritability, restlessness, or disturbed sleep could be your child’s body flagging distress.

• Act fast with shock signs: If a child suddenly becomes drowsy, has clammy skin, or faints, it may indicate dengue shock syndrome,  an emergency needing immediate hospital care.

• Prevent mosquito breeding: Cover water containers, clear stagnant water, and check flower pots and coolers. The Aedes aegypti mosquito thrives in overlooked household corners.

• Protect with simple barriers: Dress children in long-sleeved clothes, apply child-safe repellents, and use mosquito nets,  everyday habits that remain the most effective defences.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.