Dengue in Children: Symptoms, Care and Prevention Tips

Dengue fever is a serious health concern, especially for children living in tropical and subtropical regions. With their developing immune systems and higher levels of outdoor activity, children are particularly vulnerable to dengue infections. Transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, dengue can range from mild fever to severe complications, including Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS).

Understanding how dengue affects children, recognising its symptoms early, and taking preventive steps are essential for keeping your child safe. In addition, natural remedies like papaya leaf syrup can support platelet recovery and aid in a smoother recovery process.

How Dengue Affects Children

Children are often more susceptible to dengue than adults. Their immune systems are still developing, and they may not always recognise or communicate discomfort effectively. As a result, dengue in children can sometimes be harder to detect in the early stages.

Complications of dengue in children can include severe dehydration due to high fever and vomiting, a rapid decline in platelet count leading to increased bleeding risk, liver enlargement causing pain, and, in extreme cases, shock syndrome caused by plasma leakage. For this reason, parents must remain vigilant during dengue season and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear.

Symptoms of Dengue in Children

Symptoms of dengue generally appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite. In children, they can initially resemble the flu, making it difficult to diagnose without medical evaluation. Common symptoms include:

• High fever, often reaching 40°C (104°F)
• Severe headache and pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pain, sometimes described as "bone-breaking"
• Skin rashes appearing a few days after the fever starts
• Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Abdominal pain, which can indicate liver inflammation

Severe dengue can manifest as Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). Signs to watch for include bleeding from the nose, gums, or skin; vomiting blood; persistent abdominal pain; restlessness or drowsiness; and cold, clammy skin. If these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Why Children Are More Vulnerable

Several factors make children more prone to severe dengue:

1. Developing Immune Systems: Younger children have weaker immune defences, making infections harder to fight.
2. Increased Exposure: Children spend more time outdoors, particularly during early morning and late afternoon when mosquitoes are most active.
3. Delayed Symptom Recognition: Children may not articulate their discomfort, causing delays in diagnosis.
4. Higher Risk of Severe Dengue: Studies suggest children are more likely to develop serious forms like DHF and DSS.

Given these factors, proactive prevention and early detection are vital.

Preventive Measures to Protect Children

Preventing dengue involves a combination of environmental, behavioural, and personal protective strategies.

Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites

The most effective preventive step is removing standing water around your home, where mosquitoes breed. Empty water from flowerpots, birdbaths, buckets, and discarded tires. Ensure water storage containers are covered and drains are unclogged. Regularly clean outdoor toys and change water in pet bowls.

Protective Clothing

When outdoors, dress your children in long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to reduce exposed skin. Light-coloured clothing is preferable, as mosquitoes are attracted to darker colours. Insect-repellent clothing can offer additional protection.

Apply Mosquito Repellent

Use child-safe mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply according to instructions, particularly for younger children. Repellent patches or wristbands can also provide extra protection during playtime.

Mosquito Nets and Screens

Install mosquito nets over beds and cribs, especially for infants. Using window and door screens reduces mosquito entry into your home, helping maintain a safe environment for children.

Maintain a Mosquito-Free Indoor Environment

Keep indoor spaces well-ventilated and cool, as mosquitoes are less active in such conditions. Use fans or air conditioning and consider plug-in repellents or coils, particularly during the daytime when Aedes mosquitoes are active.

School-Based Prevention

Schools can play a critical role in dengue prevention. Ensure classrooms and playgrounds are free from stagnant water. Encourage children to wear protective clothing and use repellents if permitted. Installing window screens in classrooms adds an extra layer of protection.

Caring for Children with Dengue

If your child contracts dengue, proper care is essential to support recovery:

• Monitor fever closely and ensure adequate fluid intake with water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear soups.
• Encourage rest to help the body recover and avoid strenuous activities.
• Use paracetamol for fever and body pain. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can increase bleeding risk.
• Watch for warning signs of severe dengue and seek immediate medical attention if necessary.

How Caritero Supports Dengue Recovery

Caritero papaya leaf syrup and tablets can be beneficial in supporting platelet recovery in children. Dengue often leads to a drop in platelet levels, which are crucial for blood clotting. Low platelet counts increase the risk of bleeding and delay recovery.

By incorporating Caritero into your child's recovery plan:

• Platelet levels may recover faster
• Immunity is supported thanks to antioxidant properties
• Overall recovery can be smoother when combined with hydration and a healthy diet

Always consult your doctor before using supplements during illness.

Conclusion

Dengue is a serious illness in children, but with vigilance and preventive measures, it is manageable. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites, dressing children in protective clothing, using repellents, and supporting recovery with Caritero papaya leaf syrup or tablets can reduce the risk and aid faster recovery.

By combining awareness, care, and safe natural remedies, you can protect your children and give them a stronger, healthier response to dengue infections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A: High fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, and body aches are common early signs. Rashes and abdominal pain may appear later.

A: Remove stagnant water, use mosquito repellents, dress children in long sleeves and trousers, install window screens, and ensure mosquito-free surroundings at home and school.

A: Yes, children can experience more severe symptoms and are at higher risk of complications like Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever and Dengue Shock Syndrome.

A: Caritero papaya leaf syrup and tablets support platelet recovery and immunity, complementing medical care during dengue recovery.

A: Seek immediate medical attention if there is persistent vomiting, bleeding, severe abdominal pain, restlessness, or cold, clammy skin.

A: Yes, foods rich in vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants, along with Caritero papaya leaf syrup, hydration, and proper rest, can help support immunity.

A: Monitor fever, ensure hydration, provide soft, nutrient-rich meals, encourage rest, and use only doctor-approved medications like paracetamol.

A: Absolutely. Schools can eliminate standing water, promote protective clothing, use child-safe repellents, and install window screens to reduce dengue risk.