The Health Ministry warns public to seek immediate medical treatment from a state hospital or from a qualified doctor if anyone suffers from fever for over two days. Delaying medical treatment leads to complications such as developing Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), Dengue Shock Syndrome etc. Fever patients should not take any other medication except Paracetamol until hospital/doctor prescribes required and relevant drugs

Dr. Chrishan Jude Jayamaha

This week Dr. Chrishan Jude Jayamaha, Consultant Virologist attached to the Department of Virology, Medical Research Institute (MRI) speaks about dengue which has reached an epidemic level in many districts in Sri Lanka at present.

Q - What is your advice for patients with fever, especially during these days?

A - Take adequate rest. Look for danger signs such as high, continuous fever for less than seven days, bleeding from various parts of the body (including nose, mouth and gums or skin bruising), severe continuous abdominal pain etc.

Q - What should be done once dengue antigen is positive in blood?

A – A doctor will decide after examining vital signs and full blood count, whether to admit or if the patient can stay home. The doctor will monitor the platelet count. There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Treatment is symptomatic. Following are general guidelines.

• Give plenty of fluids to drink (do not give dark coloured liquids)

• Allow to eat what they can

• Paracetamol may relieve symptoms of fever and joint pain.

•Aspirin and other NSAIDs (Ibuprofen etc) must be avoided.

Q - What should be avoided by dengue patients to avoid complications?

A - Keep the person home and allow to rest. This will help quicker recovery.

Q - How can a person take care of him/herself after recovering from dengue?

A - Especially children should stay at home during illness; ideally under a mosquito net when resting and during illness. Patients may feel ill and fever may last up to a week. They could feel weak and in low spirits for up to two weeks or so if they are suffering from dengue.