Dengue is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
Dengue During Pregnancy:
- A pregnant woman already infected with dengue can easily transmit the dengue virus to her foetus during pregnancy or at the time of birth.
- Dengue increases risk of complications such as low birth weight, pre-term birth and even foetal death.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever in Pregnancy:
- Mild dengue fever symptoms:
- High fever
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rash (itching or swelling)
- Muscular or joint pain
- Severe dengue fever symptoms:
- Vomiting atleast three times within 24 hours
- Blood in urine, stools or vomit
- Restlessness and fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Bleeding from gums or nose
Treatment:
Fever: In Mild dengue fever, Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is usually given to reduce fever
Avoid: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Hydrated: Stay Hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
In severe dengue fever, you might need to be hospitalized so that your blood pressure can be monitored and fluids and electrolytes can be replaced by IV transfusions.
Prevention / Protection from Mosquito Bites:
- Use an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved insect repellant
- Stay indoors or places with air-conditioning, windows and doors
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
- Avoid places that hold up water such as old tyres, water containers or flower vases where mosquitoes tends to breed
