October 17, 2024
The Importance of Vitamin D in Children
Dengue (DEN-gee) fever is a tropical disease caused by a virus carried by mosquitoes. The virus can cause fever, headaches, rashes, and pain throughout the body. Most cases of dengue fever are mild and go away on their own after about a week.
Symptoms of dengue fever are generally mild in younger children and those who have the disease for the first time. Older kids, adults, and those who have had a previous infection may have moderate to severe symptoms.
Common signs and symptoms of dengue fever include:
Dengue fever used to be called “breakbone fever,” which might give you an idea of the severe bone and muscle pain it sometimes can cause. The fever isn’t actually breaking any bones, but it can sometimes feel like it is.
There’s no vaccine to prevent dengue fever. The best protection is to prevent bites by an infected mosquito. Be sure to:
By taking these precautions and keeping your kids away from areas that have a dengue fever epidemic, the risk of contracting dengue fever is small for international travelers.
No specific treatment is available for dengue fever. Mild cases are managed with lots of fluids to prevent dehydration and getting plenty of rest. Pain relievers with acetaminophen can ease the headaches and pain associated with dengue fever. Pain relievers with aspirin or ibuprofen should be avoided, as they can make bleeding more likely. Always consult your doctor and refrain from starting self medication.
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