Answer:

Andrographis Paniculata, known in Vietnamese as xuyen tam lien, is a traditional herbal remedy. In traditional medicine, it's known for its bitter taste and cooling properties, used to reduce fever, detoxify, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. Some studies suggest that extracts from this herb have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms and shorten the treatment duration for colds, flu, meningitis, and dengue fever.

However, there's no scientific evidence to confirm that Andrographis Paniculata can cure dengue fever. Overuse can lead to side effects like stomach aches, nausea or vomiting, and low blood pressure. Therefore, consult a doctor before using Andrographis Paniculata as a supplementary treatment for dengue fever to avoid potential health risks.

People should consult with a medical professional before using Andrographis Paniculata for medicinal purposes. Illustration: Vecteezy

People should consult with a medical professional before using Andrographis Paniculata for medicinal purposes. Illustration: Vecteezy

Dengue fever is an acute infectious disease caused by the dengue virus. It's transmitted from person to person through the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti.

There are 4 serotypes of the virus: Den-1, Den-2, Den-3, and Den-4. A person can be infected up to 4 times, with subsequent infections potentially being more severe.

Dengue fever can lead to serious complications such as dengue shock syndrome, severe bleeding, multiple organ failure, respiratory failure, and death. Patients need to be monitored for signs of deterioration so they can be hospitalized promptly. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, including fever reduction, oral or intravenous rehydration, blood or blood product transfusions, and mechanical ventilation.

Preventive measures include mosquito control, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, preventing mosquito bites, and vaccination. Vietnam currently offers the Qdenga vaccine, which reduces the risk of dengue fever by over 80% and the risk of hospitalization by over 90%. The vaccine is recommended for children 4 and older and adults. The vaccination schedule consists of two doses, 3 months apart. Women should ideally complete the vaccination schedule at least three months before pregnancy, or a minimum of one month.

Doctor Pham Dinh Dong

Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System

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