A serious side effect of dengue fever, a virus spread by Aedes mosquitoes, is dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). The majority of dengue infections are minor, but DHF, which includes bleeding, a drop in platelet count, and plasma leakage that may result in shock, is potentially fatal.

Signs and symptoms

Early signs of DHF are similar to those of regular dengue fever, including high fever, headache, rash, and muscle and joint pain, according to Dr. Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram. But after a few days, the following warning signals may appear:

Excruciating stomach ache

Frequent vomiting

Bleeding gums or nose

Blood in the stool or vomit

Therapy and supervision

DHF does not have an antiviral treatment. To prevent shock and organ failure, treatment includes supportive therapy, careful fluid replacement, and careful vital sign monitoring. Hospitalization could be necessary to enable careful observation and prompt action.

Techniques for prevention

In areas where mosquitoes breed, remove any standing water.

Make use of mosquito nets and insect repellents.

Put on long sleeves.

Maintain hygiene and dispose of garbage properly.

The Value of Consciousness

Life may be saved by early discovery and prompt treatment. The key to controlling and avoiding the severe effects of dengue hemorrhagic fever is community education programs that focus on identifying warning signals and reducing mosquito contact.