Every time Gwen has a high fever, we are really paranoid that it might be dengue. Fortunately, all those high fevers were just viral. Last month, Gwen had on and off fever, but her fever is not high, just 37-38 C, and only occurs during night time. She’s and eating like her normal self. She just have cough and colds. On and off fever lasted for a week. The following week, her temperature went up to 39 C and she had rashes on her trunk and arms, that’s the time we went to the ER to have her blood checked. The blood chem results showed that her platelets were fine and that it’s only viral infection so we were able to go home, the doctor from the ER prescribed antibiotics. Fever was gone after 3 days of taking antibiotics together with Paracetamol, cough, and colds medicine.
Although her fever was gone, we were still worried because her rashes are still visible. Part of me was also scared after reading some stories on Facebook about a Dengue strain that begins initially as pneumonia or cough/colds, you’ll discover it’s dengue when it’s already too late, and that some kid already died. So to be sure, we had her blood checked again after a week, this is because we’re also leaving for Bangkok so para everything’s clear na. Thankfully, results were good and we were given a go signal by the pedia.
Long story I know, but the point is, dengue fever is no joke, especially to children. That’s why in my family, we closely monitor if Gwen has fever. Jeff is the one who keeps an eye on those rashes, and monitors her temperature too!
What you need to know about Dengue fever
- Dengue can be prevented and stopped, this is according to Department of Health’s Undersecretary Dr. Eric Tayag.
- The World Health Organization has recommended Paracetamol as the preferred and only recommended analgesic treatment for Dengue Fever. Aspirin or ibuprofen is not advised as these drugs may aggravate bleeding. Calpol contains Paracetamol specially designed to offer effective relief from the discomforts of pain and fever among children.
- Signs and symptoms of dengue include headaches, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, muscle and joint aches, rashes, and bleeding manifestations.
Friendly Reminders
- If fever persists for 3 days already, have a blood test and to be sure Dengue Antigen test na rin, for your peace of mind.
- Stock up on Paracetamol like Calpol at home so that you can provide immediate relief to your child’s fever.
- Apply insect repellant spray or lotion to your children. We use Giga Baby Insect Repellant Spray or Tiger Balm Mosquito Repellent Spray.
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor. For more information about (Paracetamol) Calpol, and its Dengue campaign, visit www.calpol.com.ph or like on Facebook at http://facebook.com/CalpolPH .
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