Minh Anh experienced headache and high fever. By the second day, she developed nausea, diarrhea, and a rash. An NS1Ag test confirmed dengue virus, leading to a dengue fever diagnosis.

Doctor Tran Thi Thu Thao, from the Pediatrics Department at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, reported that Minh Anh recovered and was discharged after one week. Her fever subsided, vomiting stopped, appetite improved, and the rash cleared.

Doctor Thao examines Minh Anh before her discharge. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Minh Anh's parents had previously battled dengue fever, requiring approximately 10 days of treatment. Just days after their discharge, her maternal grandparents and aunt also contracted the illness. In total, six family members were affected by dengue.

Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus, spreads to humans through infected Aedes mosquitoes. While present year-round, cases typically rise during the rainy season, which provides ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Doctor Thao noted that multiple family members can contract dengue concurrently if residing in a transmission-prone area. The disease is not transmitted directly between people.

Red rashes appeared on Minh Anh's arm during her dengue illness. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

In children, dengue fever often starts with high fever, potentially accompanied by headache, nausea, poor appetite, or a rash. Doctor Thao cautioned parents against complacency when a child's fever drops. The period from day 3 to day 7 can be critical, as the disease may progress to a dangerous stage even after body temperature normalizes.

Children with mild dengue fever can receive home care under a doctor's guidance. For fever, use fever-reducing medication at the recommended dose. Avoid self-administering aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase bleeding risk.

The dengue virus has four distinct strains: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Previous infection does not guarantee immunity against other strains. Doctor Thao advises vaccination to enhance disease prevention, in addition to measures against mosquito bites.

Phuong Dang