Children should be covered properly with full-sleeved clothes.
Children, especially infants, are more prone to dengue because they don’t have a fully developed immune system.
Dengue fever is on the rise in India at present. According to official data shared by the Municipal Corporation Department, more than 3,000 cases of dengue and one death have been recorded in Delhi in the past six months. The concern for dengue this year in India is more due to a record number of cases recorded last year. About 2.3 lakh dengue cases were recorded in India in 2022, much more than the sum of all dengue cases reported in 13 years between 2000 and 2012. Dengue occurs due to the bite of an Aedes mosquito and shows symptoms like headache, muscle pain, joint pains, and nausea. Children, especially infants, are more prone to dengue because they don’t have a fully developed immune system. Infants born to mothers who have never had dengue fever are also more likely to develop dengue. This space articulates tips that parents can use to protect their newborns from dengue fever.
1. Parents can protect their newborn with the help of a mosquito net that is likely to act as a safety barrier.
2. Parents should also ensure that their children are covered properly with full-sleeved clothes.
3. There are many repellents available in the market that provide protection from mosquito bites. A mosquito repellent suitable for children’s skin can be used on the recommendation of doctors.
4. Parents should avoid taking children out early in the morning and after dusk as much as possible. It is because at this time dengue mosquitoes become more active. Mosquitoes generally do not like intense light, intense cold, and windy conditions; and thus are most comfortable during these times.
5. People should keep the house and surroundings clean. They should ensure that there is no uncovered water in the pots, utensils, or tires.
6. Persuade neighbours to remove things that could be breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
7. Usually the symptoms of dengue fever in children are mild to moderate. Parents should know about these symptoms and immediately take them to the doctor. Late treatment can aggravate the infection and worsen the medical condition.
Common dengue symptoms are:
1. Fever
2. Vomiting
3. Sleep disturbances
4. Bleeding in the gums (gums or nose)
5. Skin rashes
6. Low energy
