Dengue throughout being pregnant can flip deadly; know issues, signs and prevention ideas

Dengue circumstances are rising exponentially within the capital and final week the variety of cases stood at 105 elevating alarm bells to take preventive measures for holding the unfold. As per a Hindustan Times report, this tally is the very best variety of circumstances reported until August 5 for at the least the final 10 years. Amid the speedy unfold of the mosquito-borne illness the susceptible sections of inhabitants ought to take the required precautions to safeguard their well being. This contains pregnant girls as they don’t seem to be solely at elevated threat of getting contaminated by dengue, however it may possibly additionally trigger issues for the unborn child which incorporates preterm start and even foetal demise. (Also learn: Dengue surge: Mild to dangerous, common signs and symptoms of different dengue strains)

As monsoon is right here to remain for a while and dengue circumstances are seeing upward swing, one should carefully monitor signs like fever and rash, aches eye ache, muscle, joint, or bone ache, vomiting, nausea and so forth. It’s essential for anticipating moms to put on long-sleeved shirts and lengthy pants minimising the chance of a mosquito chew.

How monsoon will increase threat of dengue

“As the monsoon season sets in, so does the increased risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue. For pregnant women, dengue can pose serious health risks not only to themselves but also to their unborn babies. To safeguard against this potential threat, it is crucial to take proactive measures at home during this vulnerable time,” says Dr Chandrika Anand, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fortis Hospitals, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru.

How dengue spreads, know signs

Dengue is a viral an infection transmitted by means of the chew of contaminated Aedes mosquitoes, that are extra energetic throughout the monsoon season.

“The symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe and may include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding. In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can be life-threatening,” provides Dr Chandrika

Why pregnant girls are extra liable to dengue

“During pregnancy, the immune system undergoes changes to support the growing foetus, making pregnant women more susceptible to infections like dengue. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy can also impact the severity of the disease if infected. Moreover, dengue infection during pregnancy can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and even foetal death,” says Dr Chandrika.

Preventive steps at residence

Prevention is one of the best treatment for avoiding dengue and whether or not you’re at residence, office, commuting, you need to put on the appropriate clothes, and apply mosquito repellent lotions. Preventing waterlogging and utilizing mosquito nets might help minimise modifications of getting dengue.

De Chandrika shares some preventive measures for dengue:

Use mosquito repellent: Applying mosquito repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to uncovered pores and skin and clothes can considerably scale back the chance of mosquito bites. Pregnant girls ought to select a repellent that’s secure to be used throughout being pregnant and comply with the producer’s directions.

Wear protecting clothes: Covering up with long-sleeved shirts, lengthy pants, and closed footwear can present a further layer of safety in opposition to mosquito bites, particularly when spending time open air.

Stay indoors throughout peak mosquito hours: Mosquitoes are most energetic throughout daybreak and nightfall. Pregnant girls ought to keep away from out of doors actions throughout these instances and go for indoor areas with screened home windows and doorways.

Drain standing water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so it’s important to take away any standing water across the residence. Regularly verify and empty water in buckets, flowerpots, and birdbaths to remove potential breeding websites.

Screen home windows and doorways: Installing screens on home windows and doorways can successfully stop mosquitoes from getting into the house. Properly maintained screens create a barrier in opposition to these disease-carrying bugs.

Use a mosquito internet: If residing in an space with a excessive mosquito inhabitants or touring to such areas, utilizing a mosquito internet whereas sleeping can present a peaceable and bite-free night time’s relaxation.

Seeking medical consideration

If a pregnant girl suspects that she has dengue or experiences any regarding signs throughout being pregnant, it’s essential to hunt quick medical consideration.

“Dengue can be particularly severe for pregnant women, so early detection and prompt treatment are vital to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and the baby. A falling platelet count or bleeding from any site in the body itself counts as an indication to visit a hospital. It is very important to look for bleeding manifestations,” says Dr Chandrika.

Complications of dengue fever

• Acute hepatitis
• Dengue encephalitis and seizures
• Intracranial haemorrhage
• Fulminant myocarditis
• Acute kidney damage
• Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis
• Retinal vasculitis

How dengue fever is recognized

Dengue fever is recognized by detection of viral nucleic acid in serum by the use of reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain response assay which is optimistic throughout the first 5 days of sickness or by way of detection of viral antigen non-structural protein NS1 which is optimistic throughout the first seven days of sickness.

Additional measures for dengue prevention throughout being pregnant by Dr Chandrika:

Consult your physician: Pregnant girls ought to speak to their healthcare supplier about their particular threat of contracting dengue throughout being pregnant. The physician might help assess the chance and supply personalised preventive measures.

Be vigilant no matter location: Mosquitoes can journey over lengthy distances, making dengue a priority even in areas not generally related to the illness. Pregnant girls ought to keep vigilant and take precautions no matter their location.

Know the signs: Familiarising oneself with the signs of dengue is essential, as they’ll typically be mistaken for different diseases. If experiencing any indicators of dengue, reminiscent of excessive fever, extreme headache, joint and muscle ache, or rash, in search of medical analysis promptly is important.

“By adopting these preventive steps and seeking early medical attention if needed, pregnant women can significantly reduce their risk of contracting dengue during the monsoon season. Protecting oneself from mosquito bites is crucial not only for the expectant mother’s well-being but also for the health and safety of her precious baby. Remember, staying informed and proactive is the key to a healthy and enjoyable pregnancy journey during the monsoon season,” provides Dr Chandrika.