High fever
According to Dr Abhishek Chopra, Consultant - Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, New Delhi, India, sudden high fever lasting for 2 to 7 days, is the main sign of dengue fever in infants.
“Paracetamol is the safest medicine to use to reduce fever in such cases. Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen as they can increase the risk of bleeding,” says Dr Chopra.
Rash
A distinctive rash usually appears 2 to 5 days after the fever starts. It starts as small red spots on the chest, back or abdomen and can spread all over the body, often accompanied by itching. This rash can be a warning sign of dengue fever and should not be ignored.
Reduced appetite
Infants with dengue fever will often refuse to feed or have a significantly reduced appetite. Prolonged refusal to feed can lead to dehydration, which can make the condition worse.
Irritability or restlessness
“Persistent irritability or discomfort in a newborn can be cause for concern,” adds Dr. Chopra. Your newborn may cry more than usual, become irritable, or become unusually restless. This change in behavior can be an early warning sign of dengue.
lethargy and fatigue
Extreme tiredness, weakness and lack of interest in daily activities can be signs of dengue fever. If your baby seems unusually sleepy or lethargic, it is important to seek medical attention as this can lead to a more serious condition.
Vomiting and diarrhea
Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea are common in infants with dengue fever. These symptoms increase the risk of dehydration, making the condition more serious and making recovery more difficult.
Symptoms of bleeding
One of the most dangerous signs of severe dengue is bleeding. This can manifest as bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or small red or purple spots under the skin. In some cases, there may be blood in the stool or vomit, which is a sign of a serious condition.
Shortness of breath
Infants with dengue fever may develop respiratory symptoms such as cough, runny nose or difficulty breathing. These symptoms may indicate fluid buildup in the lungs, a serious complication of severe dengue fever that requires immediate treatment.
When to seek immediate medical attention
If your newborn has any of the following serious symptoms, seek medical help immediately:
- Continuous vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Abnormal bleeding
- Signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry mouth, little urination)
- Shortness of breath
- Extremely lethargic or unresponsive
