In September of this year, the Ministry of Health declared St. Lucia to be experiencing a Dengue Fever outbreak, with cases rising across the island.
Most St. Lucians are no strangers to this disease. Many of us have family members who have experienced Dengue Fever, some more than once. Unfortunately, we all know people who have been hospitalized or, in some cases, have lost loved ones due to complications of Dengue.
Ask any St. Lucian, even kids, are familiar with the Aedes Aegypti (Dengue) mosquito, easily recognized by its black and white striped legs. Everyone knows that it is most active during the day.
Our experience with Dengue is such that everyone knows the symptoms. Many patients come into the clinic declaring “I have Dengue” rather than list out the symptoms. (fever, body aches/joint pain, headache/ pain behind eyes, weakness, nausea, vomiting)
It is easy for us to feel like we know everything there is to know about Dengue.
But let’s just review some key points that we must not forget:
The Critical Phase
This phase typically occurs on day 4, day 5, and day 6 after the onset of symptoms. During this time, patients are at greater risk of developing severe complications, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Warning Signs
It is crucial that anyone with Dengue Fever who develops the following warning signs, especially during the critical phase, seeks immediate medical attention:
- Signs of dehydration (reduced urine output, dry mouth)
- Faint or near faint
- Restlessness
- Persistent vomiting
- Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
- Bleeding (gums or nose or heavy menstrual period)
- Fatigue or restlessness
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Severe abdominal pain
- Cool clammy skin
- Low blood pressure
If you are not sure, but you do not feel well or are concerned about your loved one and they are in the Critical Phase, you must seek assistance from your healthcare provider.
These symptoms could indicate the onset of Severe Dengue, a more dangerous form of the illness that requires urgent care.
Protecting Your Family
Another key factor in controlling the spread of Dengue Fever within households is protecting those who are already infected. The Aedes aegypti mosquito can bite a person with Dengue and transmit the virus to others in the household.
It is essential that anyone with Dengue Fever is shielded by a mosquito net while they rest at home. This simple measure can prevent the mosquito from spreading the disease to other family members.
Also Don’t forget!
It is important for all of us to be vigilant.
- Eliminate standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed.
- Use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to reduce mosquito bites.
- Sleep under mosquito nets, especially if someone in your household is ill with dengue fever.
- Seek medical attention if you or a family member develops any of the warning signs, particularly during the critical phase.
By staying informed and taking preventive measures, we can help protect ourselves, our families, and our community from the impact of Dengue Fever.
