Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or DHF is a disease caused by the dengue virus which is transmitted by the bites of Aedes aegypt and Aedes Albopictus mosquitoes . Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is commonly found in areas with tropical climates because DHF is a tropical disease. Usually, the season for Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) occurs in September and reaches its peak in February. This disease is generally more common in children aged 4-10 years.
What is Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS)?
Dengue fever has 4 levels of severity. At levels 3 and 4 it is called Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), where the patient is not in a good condition. At this stage, the patient is usually in shock , has decreased consciousness, has a weak pulse, and has whole body pain. This condition is very dangerous if not handled properly.
What are the symptoms of DHF?
In general, the symptoms of DHF are high fever, headache, body aches and pains, bloating, nausea, and weakness. Then after a few days, red spots may appear on the body.
What are the phases of DHF?
- Febrile phase: Occurs on the first to third day. Fever in DHF can usually occur for 2 to 7 days.
- Critical phase: The phase in which the platelets experience a drastic decrease, the pulse weakens, and consciousness begins to fall. Usually this phase occurs on day 4-5.
- Recovery phase: On days 6 to 7, usually the condition gradually improves, and appetite begins to increase.
Can guava juice prevent dengue fever?
Myth, because drinking guava juice cannot actually prevent or speed up the healing of dengue fever. However, it is good for strengthening blood vessels because it contains high Vitamin C. Thus, the patient does not lack fluids.
Can DHF be cured with antibiotics ?
No, this is a myth, because antibiotics work to treat diseases caused by bacteria. While DHF is caused by the dengue virus.
Does obesity make you more susceptible to dengue?
Myth, because the cause of DHF is mosquito bites and has nothing to do with the patient's weight. However, patients who are obese will usually be more susceptible to Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS).
When you have DHF, do you have to drink more isotonic intake?
In fact, because the most important treatment for DHF is to drink more to avoid dehydration or lack of fluids. So by increasing isotonic intake can help with this.
If you've had dengue fever, can you not get it again?
This is a myth, because in fact it is very possible if someone gets DHF more than once.
What is first aid for a patient with dengue fever?
The first aid when knowing someone has dengue fever is to diligently check body temperature regularly. Patients can also be given paracetamol to reduce fever. And make sure the patient does not lack fluids by drinking a lot.
Do DHF patients have to be hospitalized ?
Actually it is okay for DHF patients to do outpatient care if conditions allow. That is, if the patient's platelets are at a good number, the patient has not lost his appetite and drink, and his consciousness is still good. However, you should still be treated at the hospital so that you can be monitored directly by a doctor.
To prevent dengue fever can be done by maintaining the cleanliness and health of the environment. There should be no standing pools which can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. If you feel the symptoms of DHF, you should immediately visit a doctor so that you can get good help as soon as possible.
Article written by dr. Widodo Tirto, Sp.A (Pediatrician, Tangerang EMC Hospital).