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Dengue and viral fevers follow the monsoons in Kolkata and other parts of India and widespread and well-publicized cases in patients are seen regularly. Most of the viral fevers are mild and self-limiting, while with dengue the infection can be quite rapid and significantly debilitating if not identified early enough. Consequently, early recognition, and timely treatment remains the best option available currently for lessening the potential morbidity from these illnesses.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs

In the initial days of dengue infection, patients may resemble the common viral illnesses. Symptoms may include high-grade fever, significant and debilitating body ache, severe headaches, nausea, and malaise. The difference between dengue and most other viral infections is that dengue's symptoms are more significant, last longer and may be associated with ocular (eye) pain, rashes on the skin and critically thrombocytopenia . There may be cases where the patient has gum bleeding, epistaxis (nose bleeds) or bleeding/red spots on the skin as well, which is an unmistakable reason to get to the ER immediately. Of course, with viral fevers they will breed self-limiting for 3–5 days, with supportive treatment only.

Importance of Early Consultation

Seeking medical advice at the onset of illness is critical. There are different forms of Dengue, and early diagnosis will provide reassurance and allow for effective management through hydration, observation and supportive treatment, so as to minimize or prevent risk of deteriorating to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock. Doctors will often suggest a very straightforward blood test so you will know if you have Dengue or not. Special note, don't self-medicate with drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin, which will worsen potential bleeding for people with Dengue.

Monitoring and Home Care

If you have the fever, you should be monitoring temperature, hydration, urine output, and energy levels daily. While waiting for your consultation, you can safely rest, drink lots of fluids, and take paracetamol for your fever. If your illness worsens, for example you are experiencing severe abdominal pain with vomiting, extreme fatigue, feeling drowsy or difficultly breathing you should assess with a hospital.

Beyond the Prevention Measures

The simplest prevention measures decrease the chance of getting both dengue fever and a viral infection. For dengue fever, the critical prevention measures are preventing mosquito bites (using mosquito repellents), removing sources of stagnant water, and taking other mosquito control steps. For viral fever, the most important prevention measures are practicing good hand hygiene (washing hands with soap), wearing a mask in crowded areas, and good nutrition to keep immunity strong.

A key factor is recognizing that seeking medical advice and getting early treatment can provide a better outcome in managing dengue fever and a viral infection. If you keep a watchful eye, avoid self-medication, and prevention is prioritized, you can keep yourself and your family safe.

(Dr Anirban Chattopadhyay Critical Care Specialist, CMRI Kolkata)