Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness that poses a serious health threat, especially to children. With monsoon seasons creating a fertile breeding ground for mosquitoes, the risk of dengue in children rises significantly. What makes it particularly dangerous in kids is how subtly symptoms may present—and how quickly they can escalate into a medical emergency.
As a parent, understanding the early warning signs, knowing when to seek medical attention, and adopting effective prevention strategies are vital steps to protect your child.
What Is Dengue?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. There are four different strains of the virus (DENV-1 to DENV-4), and infection with one does not provide immunity against the others. In fact, secondary infections can increase the risk of severe complications.
Why Are Children at Higher Risk?
Children, especially infants and those under 10, may not be able to communicate their symptoms effectively. Additionally, their immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to complications such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS).
Key risk factors in children:
Outdoor play during mosquito-active hours
Incomplete protective clothing
Lack of prior exposure (immunity)
Delay in recognizing symptoms
Early Symptoms of Dengue in Children
Dengue symptoms usually appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite. The early signs can resemble common viral infections, making it difficult to diagnose without medical tests.
Mild to Moderate Symptoms:
Sudden high fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain (“breakbone fever”)
Skin rashes (may appear after the fever subsides)
Fatigue and irritability
In infants and toddlers, symptoms may be less specific—fever, fussiness, and lack of energy.
Severe Dengue in Children: Danger Signs
Severe dengue, also called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), is life-threatening and requires immediate hospitalization.
Warning signs include:
Persistent vomiting
Bleeding gums or nose
Blood in vomit or stool (melena)
Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
Cold, clammy skin (sign of shock)
Sudden drop in body temperature
Lethargy or confusion
These symptoms usually appear 24–48 hours after the fever subsides, making this period extremely critical.
Stages of Dengue Infection in Children
Understanding the phases of dengue helps in monitoring your child:
1. Febrile Phase (Days 1–3)
High fever, headache, vomiting, body pain
Dehydration may occur
2. Critical Phase (Days 4–6)
Fever begins to drop
Plasma leakage may occur
Risk of DHF and DSS is highest during this stage
3. Recovery Phase (Days 6–10)
Fluid reabsorption
Gradual improvement in condition
Skin rash and fatigue may persist
How Is Dengue Diagnosed in Children?
Prompt diagnosis is key. Your child’s pediatrician may recommend the following:
1. Blood Tests
NS1 Antigen Test: Detects dengue virus in the early stages (Day 1–5)
Dengue IgM and IgG Antibody Test: Detects immune response to infection
Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check platelet levels and hematocrit
Liver function tests (LFTs): Elevated enzymes may suggest liver involvement
2. Physical Examination
Checking for rashes, bleeding, and fluid accumulation
Monitoring vital signs and hydration status
Treatment of Dengue in Children
There is no specific antiviral medication for dengue. Management focuses on supportive care and preventing complications.
Mild Dengue (Can be managed at home with monitoring):
Paracetamol for fever (Avoid ibuprofen or aspirin as they increase bleeding risk)
Plenty of fluids: Oral rehydration salts (ORS), coconut water, soup
Adequate rest
Nutrient-rich foods: Easy to digest meals like rice, porridge, fruits
Severe Dengue (Requires hospitalization):
IV fluid replacement to prevent shock
Monitoring of vital signs and platelet counts
Blood transfusion in case of significant bleeding
Oxygen therapy for breathing difficulties
Home Care Tips for Parents
If your child has been diagnosed with mild dengue, follow these at-home care tips:
✅ Keep your child well hydrated
✅ Use only doctor-recommended medications
✅ Track fever and watch for danger signs
✅ Maintain a calm, quiet environment
✅ Avoid sending your child to school or daycare until fully recovered
✅ Use mosquito nets to avoid spreading the virus to others
When to Rush to the Hospital
Seek emergency care if your child:
Has a persistent high fever
Complains of severe pain in the stomach
Becomes drowsy, confused, or unresponsive
Has nosebleeds or bleeding gums
Passes black tarry stools or vomits blood
Shows signs of shock (cold limbs, rapid pulse, low BP)
Time is critical—delayed hospitalization in severe cases can be fatal.
Complications of Dengue in Children
If not treated early, dengue can lead to:
Severe dehydration
Internal bleeding
Organ damage, especially to the liver
Hypovolemic shock
Death
Long-term effects like fatigue, hair loss, and reduced immunity may persist for weeks post-recovery.
Preventing Dengue in Children
1. Mosquito Protection
Dress children in long sleeves and pants
Use mosquito repellents (child-safe formulas)
Install mosquito nets over cribs and beds
Use window screens or keep windows closed
2. Environmental Control
Eliminate standing water from buckets, flower pots, and tires
Clean water storage containers regularly
Avoid outdoor play during dawn and dusk
3. Community Measures
Cooperate with local fogging/spraying initiatives
Educate others about dengue prevention
Avoid areas with reported dengue outbreaks
Is There a Dengue Vaccine for Children?
Yes, the Dengvaxia vaccine is approved in some countries for children aged 9–16 who have already had a dengue infection. However, it is not recommended for children without a prior infection, as it may increase the risk of severe dengue upon subsequent exposure.
In India, widespread use of the vaccine is still under review, and preventive measures remain the best strategy.
FAQs About Dengue in Children
Q1. Can dengue recur in children?
Yes. Since there are 4 strains of the virus, children can get infected multiple times with different strains, increasing the risk of severe dengue.
Q2. How long does dengue last in children?
Most children recover in 7–10 days, though fatigue and weakness may linger for weeks.
Q3. Is dengue contagious from child to child?
No. It’s not spread person-to-person, but if a mosquito bites an infected child and then another, it can transmit the virus.
Q4. Should children with dengue be isolated?
Isolation from mosquitoes is essential to prevent further spread—use nets, repellents, and avoid mosquito exposure.
Early detection saves lives, especially in children. Sparsh Diagnostic Centre offers:
Dengue tests (Home blood collection facility available)
Blood and platelet count monitoring
Pediatric care coordination
Prompt reporting and guidance for parents
Their skilled team ensures accurate diagnosis and timely alerts if a child shows signs of progression to severe dengue.
Dengue in children can be dangerous, but with early recognition and the right care, it is completely manageable. As a parent, your vigilance can make all the difference—monitor symptoms closely, ensure good hydration, and never ignore warning signs like vomiting, bleeding, or drowsiness.
Above all, prevention is better than cure. Take steps to keep your home mosquito-free and educate your children about the importance of protection.
If you suspect your child may have dengue or if they’re showing symptoms during the monsoon season, don’t delay. Get tested at a reliable diagnostic centre like Sparsh Diagnostic Centre.
Book a Dengue Test Today
📍 Sparsh Diagnostic Centre
📞 Call: 9830117733 / 8335049501
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🌐 www.sparshdiagnostica.com
Stay Healthy. Stay Safe. 💙
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Disclaimer:
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
