by ISB Nurse’s Office
nurse@isb.ac.th
Dengue Fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquito bites. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is a more severe form of dengue infection. Dengue cannot be spread person to person. While the peak season in Thailand is May to September, there have been recently reported cases within our ISB community. We want to give you information on the prevention and treatment of dengue.
How do I reduce the risk of my children being infected with dengue fever? Is there a vaccine?
The most effective way to prevent dengue fever is to avoid mosquito bites. Do this by staying in screened areas, using mosquito nets, plug-ins or coils in living areas where mosquitoes are present, wear clothing that covers the body and apply DEET-containing mosquito repellent to exposed skin. In addition, eliminating standing water in planters and gardens helps to reduce the number of mosquitoes present in and around your home. There is not yet a vaccine to prevent dengue infection.
Signs and symptoms:
- Sudden, high fever
- Severe headache
- Severe pain behind the eyes
- Joint pain, muscle pain, bone pain
- Rash
- Mild bleeding (gums or nose that bleed easily)
What is the treatment for dengue fever?
Patients should be seen soon after developing the symptoms listed above. No specific treatment for dengue infection exists, but supportive care includes acetaminophen, rest, fluids and monitoring by a healthcare provider. After the fever declines, if symptoms worsen or vomiting or diarrhea are present, the patient should seek medical care immediately.
This communication is a summary of information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Thai Ministry of Health. Find more information from the CDC about Dengue Fever here.
ISB is committed to your child’s overall development, both educationally and health related. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider or the ISB Nurse’s Office (nurse@isb.ac.th).
