‘Severe dengue often develops on 3rd, 4th day of fever’

Severe dengue often emerges in the third or fourth day following the onset of fever, experts have advised. Dr HM Nazmul Ahsan, an associate professor at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, made this observation in a recent interview with The Daily Star. The doctor urged patients to seek medical attention at the onset of fever, and again on the third or fourth day, as well as after the fever has subsided.

"Treatment is not simply about giving fluids," he emphasized, noting that treatment varies based on the patient's haematocrit levels and other clinical factors, potentially requiring saline, plasma solutions, dextran, or blood transfusions. Nazmul highlighted that many dengue patients currently admitted to the hospital face serious complications, such as hepatitis, shock due to dangerously low blood pressure, and fluid buildup in the chest or abdomen.

He underscored the significance of administering the correct intravenous fluid at the appropriate stage of the illness.

Patients should seek immediate medical help if they exhibit warning signs such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, fluid accumulation, reduced urine output, breathing difficulties, cold extremities, or bleeding. Recognizing early dengue symptoms, which can mimic those of other viral illnesses, is crucial for timely medical evaluation.

Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital has recorded the highest number of dengue admissions among hospitals nationwide this year, with 1,156 cases as of August 9, according to the Directorate General of Health Services. Notably, 672 dengue patients were hospitalized within 24 hours of August 9, marking the highest single-day admissions this year. So far in 2022, the country has reported 19,345 dengue cases and 61 fatalities.