What constitutes a dangerous fever in children. How high does a fever need to be before it becomes concerning. When should parents seek medical attention for their child’s fever. What are the most effective ways to manage a child’s fever at home.

Defining Fever in Children: Temperature Thresholds

A fever is a common symptom in children, often indicating that their body is fighting an infection. But how do we define a fever in children? Let’s look at the temperature thresholds:

• Rectal temperature: 38°C or higher
• Oral temperature: 37.8°C or higher
• Armpit temperature: 37.2°C or higher

It’s important to note that forehead temperature readings may not always be reliable. If you’re unsure, it’s best to confirm the results using another method. Always use a reliable thermometer for accurate readings.

High Fevers: Causes and Concerns

A high fever typically falls in the range of 38.9 – 40°C. While this might seem alarming, it’s crucial to understand that the height of the fever doesn’t necessarily correlate with the severity of the illness.

Common causes of high fevers include:

• Viral infections (including the common cold)
• Bacterial infections

Interestingly, serious infections may not always cause a fever. In some cases, especially in infants, they might present as abnormally low body temperatures. This underscores the importance of monitoring your child’s overall condition, not just their temperature.

Why Do Fevers Occur?

Fevers are the body’s natural defense mechanism against infections. When germs enter the body, it responds by raising its temperature. This higher body temperature makes it harder for germs to multiply, while the immune system works to eliminate them. In children, these infections can actually help build up their immune system over time.

Duration of Fevers in Children

How long should you expect your child’s fever to last? In most cases, a fever on its own is harmless and should subside within 3 to 5 days. During this time, it’s important to keep your child comfortable and let their body naturally fight the fever. However, it’s crucial to monitor the fever to ensure it doesn’t escalate.

Is there a specific duration after which you should be concerned about a fever? While most fevers resolve within a few days, persistent fevers lasting more than 5 days or fevers accompanied by other concerning symptoms warrant medical attention.

Home Remedies for Managing Fevers

There are several ways to manage your child’s fever at home and keep them comfortable:

1. Place a cool compress on the forehead
2. Maintain a moderate room temperature
3. Dress your child in light clothing
4. Use a light blanket during sleep
5. Provide lukewarm sponge baths
6. Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration
7. Allow your child to eat as much as they can
8. Keep your child indoors and encourage rest
9. Administer appropriate over-the-counter medication as needed

Do these home remedies actually help reduce fever? While these methods may not directly lower the fever, they can significantly improve your child’s comfort during a fever. The body’s natural defenses will work to fight the infection and reduce the fever over time.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Fever Management

When it comes to medication, there are safe over-the-counter options for children:

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)

Paracetamol is a pain reliever that also helps reduce fever. For children, it’s available as a suppository or syrup. Key points to remember:

• Not recommended for children under 2 months without doctor’s advice
• Dosage is based on the child’s age
• Maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats inflammation, fever, and pain. Important considerations:

• Not suitable for children under 6 months
• Available in drops, liquids, or chewable tablets for children
• Dosage based on child’s weight
• Maximum of 4 doses in 24 hours

Are these medications safe for all children? While generally safe when used as directed, it’s crucial to follow dosage instructions carefully and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, especially for younger children or those with pre-existing health conditions.

Medications to Avoid in Children with Fever

While some medications are safe for children, others should be avoided:

• Aspirin: Never give aspirin to children as it increases the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the liver and brain.
• Any medication for infants under 2 months: These young babies should be evaluated by a doctor before receiving any fever medication.

Why is aspirin particularly dangerous for children with fever? Aspirin can interfere with the body’s natural inflammatory response and, in rare cases, lead to Reye’s syndrome, which can cause severe liver and brain damage. The risk is particularly high in children recovering from viral illnesses.

Nighttime Fevers in Children: Understanding the Pattern

Many parents notice that their child’s fever seems to spike at night. This is a common observation and shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

• Natural body temperature fluctuations: Our body temperature naturally rises in the evening and early night as part of our circadian rhythm.
• Decreased activity: Children are typically less active at night, which can make fever symptoms more noticeable.
• Dehydration: If a child hasn’t had enough fluids during the day, it can lead to slight dehydration by evening, potentially exacerbating fever symptoms.
• Medication wearing off: If fever-reducing medication was given earlier in the day, its effects might be wearing off by nighttime.

Should parents be more concerned about nighttime fevers? While nighttime fevers can seem more intense, they don’t necessarily indicate a worsening condition. However, it’s important to monitor your child’s overall symptoms and seek medical attention if the fever is accompanied by other concerning signs.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Child’s Fever

While most fevers in children can be managed at home, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. Here are some guidelines on when to consult a doctor:

Age-Based Guidelines

• Infants under 3 months: Seek medical attention for any fever over 38°C (100.4°F)
• Infants 3-6 months: Consult a doctor for fevers over 39°C (102.2°F)
• Children over 6 months: Medical attention is needed for fevers over 40°C (104°F)

Symptom-Based Guidelines

Regardless of age, seek medical help if your child experiences:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, decreased urination)
• Seizures or convulsions
• Unusual rashes or skin discoloration
• Extreme lethargy or difficulty waking
• Persistent fever lasting more than 5 days

How quickly should parents seek medical attention in these cases? If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. In cases of severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or seizures, immediate emergency care is necessary.

Understanding Fever’s Role in the Immune System

While fevers can be concerning for parents, it’s important to understand their role in the body’s defense mechanism. Fevers are not inherently harmful; they’re a sign that the body is actively fighting an infection. Here’s how fevers contribute to the immune response:

• Increased body temperature makes it harder for pathogens to survive and replicate
• Heat stimulates the production of white blood cells, enhancing the immune response
• Fever triggers the release of interferon, a protein that helps fight viral infections
• The increased metabolic rate during a fever can accelerate healing processes

Does this mean parents should avoid treating fevers? Not necessarily. While low to moderate fevers can be beneficial, high fevers or those causing significant discomfort should be managed. The goal is to make the child comfortable while allowing the body to fight the infection effectively.

Fever Prevention: Boosting Your Child’s Immune System

While it’s not always possible to prevent fevers, there are steps you can take to boost your child’s immune system and reduce the likelihood of infections:

1. Ensure a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
2. Promote adequate sleep and rest
3. Encourage regular physical activity
4. Teach and reinforce good hygiene practices, especially handwashing
5. Keep vaccinations up to date
6. Minimize exposure to secondhand smoke
7. Manage stress levels in the household

Can these measures completely prevent fevers? While these strategies can significantly strengthen your child’s immune system, it’s important to remember that occasional fevers are a normal part of childhood. They play a crucial role in building a robust immune system for the future.

The Impact of Fevers on Child Development

Parents often worry about the long-term effects of fevers on their children’s development. However, in most cases, typical childhood fevers do not cause lasting harm. Here’s what research tells us:

• Cognitive Development: Short-term fevers generally don’t impact cognitive development. In fact, the immune response triggered by fevers may play a role in brain development.
• Physical Growth: Occasional fevers don’t typically affect a child’s physical growth trajectory.
• Immune System Maturation: Exposure to common infections and subsequent fevers can help strengthen and mature the immune system.
• Neurological Development: While very high fevers (over 42°C or 107.6°F) can potentially cause neurological damage, such extreme temperatures are rare in typical childhood illnesses.

Should parents be concerned about developmental delays due to frequent fevers? In most cases, no. However, if a child experiences recurrent high fevers or prolonged febrile illnesses, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician to rule out any underlying conditions that might impact development.

Fever Myths and Misconceptions

There are many myths surrounding childhood fevers that can lead to unnecessary worry. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:

Myth 1: Fever is a disease itself

Fact: Fever is a symptom, not a disease. It’s the body’s natural response to fighting infections.

Myth 2: All fevers are dangerous and need immediate treatment

Fact: Most fevers are beneficial and help the body fight infections. Treatment should focus on comfort rather than eliminating the fever entirely.

Myth 3: Fevers always indicate a serious bacterial infection

Fact: Most childhood fevers are caused by viral infections, which don’t require antibiotics and often resolve on their own.

Myth 4: Fevers cause brain damage

Fact: Typical fevers (under 42°C or 107.6°F) do not cause brain damage. The body has mechanisms to prevent temperatures from reaching dangerous levels.

Myth 5: Bundling up helps “break” a fever

Fact: Bundling can actually increase body temperature and discomfort. Light clothing and a comfortable environment are better for managing fevers.

How can parents differentiate between fever myths and facts? It’s crucial to rely on information from reputable medical sources and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice. Understanding the true nature of fevers can help reduce anxiety and promote appropriate care.

The Role of Technology in Fever Management

Advancements in technology have introduced new tools for managing and monitoring fevers in children. These innovations can provide parents with more accurate information and peace of mind:

• Smart Thermometers: These devices can track temperature over time and sync with smartphone apps for easy monitoring and sharing with healthcare providers.
• Wearable Temperature Monitors: Continuous temperature monitoring devices can alert parents to significant changes in their child’s temperature.
• Telemedicine Platforms: Virtual consultations allow parents to discuss their child’s fever symptoms with healthcare professionals without leaving home.
• Health Tracking Apps: These apps can help parents log symptoms, medication doses, and other important information related to their child’s fever.

Are these technological solutions necessary for managing childhood fevers? While these tools can be helpful, they’re not essential. Traditional methods of temperature taking and symptom monitoring are still effective. The most important factors in managing childhood fevers remain attentive care, appropriate comfort measures, and knowing when to seek medical attention.

Fever in Children: Your Questions Answered

Source: Shutterstock

Last updated: 1 Jun 2023 | 4 min reading time

Dr Ratna Sridjaja

Paediatrician

Common viral infections can cause a fever but they can usually be safely managed at home. However, symptoms like difficulty breathing, vomiting and seizures should receive medical attention.

What determines a fever?

Your child is running a fever if he or she:

• Has a rectal temperature of 38°C or higher.
• Has an oral temperature of 37.8°C or higher.
• Has an armpit temperature of 37.2°C or higher.

Forehead temperature readings may not always be a reliable gauge for fever. Whenever in doubt, use another method to confirm the results. Always make sure to use a reliable thermometer too.

Speak with any one of our paediatricians about your child’s health concerns today.

What causes a high fever?

A high fever typically falls in the 38.9 – 40°C range.

Causes of a higher fever include the common cold or other viral infections, but this doesn’t usually indicate a serious problem. Serious infections, on the contrary, may not cause a fever, and could present themselves as abnormally low body temperatures, especially in infants.

A fever may also cause chills as the body tries to generate additional heat, resulting in a higher body temperature. A child may also sweat as the body releases extra heat when the temperature starts to drop.

Why does my child have a fever?

A fever is our body’s natural defensive reaction to an infection caused by germs that have entered the body. With a higher body temperature, germs will find it harder to multiply as our immune system kills them off. Infections in children may not necessarily be bad as it can help build up their immune system.

Types of germs that cause infections:

• Viruses
• Bacteria

Most of the time, your child’s fever will be due to a self-resolving common virus that the immune system will fight.

Bacterial infections, on the other hand, may get worse if not treated with antibiotics.

An important point to note, is that the height of the fever does not correlate to the severity of the child’s illness.

How long will my child’s fever last?

In most cases, a fever on its own is harmless and should subside in 3 – 5 days. Keep your child comfortable and let the body do its part in fighting the fever naturally. However, keep watch to make sure the fever does not escalate.

How do I make my child comfortable with home remedies?

There are many ways you can manage the fever and keep your child comfortable:

• Place a cool compress on the forehead
• Keep the room at a moderate temperature – not too hot and not too cold
• Dress your child in a layer of light clothing
• Use a light blanket when sleeping
• Cool your child off with lukewarm sponge baths
• Make sure your child drinks a lot of fluids to prevent dehydration
• Let your child eat as much as he or she can. What’s important isn’t how much your child is eating, but if he or she is still drinking and urinating normally.
• Keep your child indoors
• Let your child rest as much as possible
• Give your child paracetamol or ibuprofen in accordance with the recommended dosage for children.

Over-the-counter-medication

Over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription. Common options that are safe for children include paracetamol and ibuprofen.

Paracetamol (acetaminophen)

Paracetamol is a pain reliever that also helps to bring down a fever. For children, it may come in the form of a suppository or syrup. Children below 2 months of age are not advised to take paracetamol unless advised by a doctor. Dosage is recommended based on your child’s age and you should not give your child more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps to treat inflammation, fever and pain. Children under 6 months of age should not be given ibuprofen.

For children above 6 months of age, formulations for children may come in drops, liquids or chewable tablets. You should follow the recommended doses, which are based on your child’s weight. You should not give your child more than 4 doses in 24 hours.

Medications to avoid

Never give aspirin to children. It can result in a higher risk of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but very serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain.

Infants under 2 months of age should not be given any medication for fever without first being evaluated by a doctor.

Why is my child’s fever higher at night?

Children are more prone to getting fevers as their immune systems aren’t fully developed. But do not be alarmed if your child’s fever is higher at night. Body temperatures rise naturally in the evening, so a slight fever in the day can easily spike during sleep.

My child has a fever and other symptoms.

Should I be worried?

The general symptoms commonly associated with a fever can include:

• Shivering
• Cold hands and feet
• Tiredness and discomfort
• Aches and pains
• Headaches
• Sweating or feeling flushed
• Lack of appetite
• Weakness or lack of energy

These symptoms are usually not a cause for concern. Over-the-counter medication can help relieve them.

When should I call a doctor?

While the body is very adept at fighting infections, bring your child to see a medical professional if you note these warning signs:

• Your child is younger than 2 months and has a temperature of 38°C or more
• Your child is aged 3 – 6 months and has a temperature up to 38.9°C or more
• Your child has persistent fever that lasts for more than 72 hours.

The following symptoms are abnormal and could be a sign of a serious infection. Your child should receive immediate medical attention. Our A&E accident and emergency department provides immediate medical attention for urgent medical problems to patients 24 hours a day.

• Extremely sleepy or irritable
• Trouble breathing
• Rashes or purple spots that look like bruises on the skin
• Pain, redness, or swelling in a localised area
• In infants, the soft spot on the head bulges out or is sunken inwards
• Drinking very little water
• Severely decreased urination or pain with urination
• Heavy coughing
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Has difficulty walking
• Has blue lips, tongue, or nails

Read this article for more information on fever in babies and how to manage your infant’s fever.

Thermometer basics: Taking your child’s temperature (n.d.). Retrieved June 1 2019 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/thermometer/art-20047410

Treating Fever in Children (n. d.). Retrieved June 1 2019 from https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/fever-in-children-treatment#1

What to Do When Your Kid Has a Fever (n.d.). Retrieved June 1 2019 from https://www.webmd.com/children/guide/treat-fever-young-children#1

(9 April 2019) How to Treat a Viral Fever at Home. Retrieved June 1 2019 from https://www.healthline.com/health/viral-fever-home-remedies

(5 December 2018) Baby Fever 101: How to Care for Your Child. Retrieved 1 June 2019 from https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/baby-fever-101

(12 October 2020) Symptoms of Fever in Adults, Children, and Babies, and When to Seek Help. Retrieved 1 June 2019 from https://www.healthline.com/health/fever-symptoms

Article tags

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Fever in children | Health Information

Expand all

• 
  
  

  A high fever in children will normally get better on its own as your child fights off an infection. While they recover you can do some things to keep them comfortable. But sometimes, a fever can be the sign of a more serious illness. So, it’s important to keep an eye out for any changes in your child’s behaviour and any other symptoms.

  For more information, see our sections: Self-help for fever in children and Symptoms of fever in children.

• 
  
  

  A child is considered to have a fever if their temperature is 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. The normal body temperature of children can vary and can go up and down in an individual child naturally throughout the day. But if it’s higher than 38°C (100.4°F), they have a fever.

• 
  
  

  Yes, you can let your child go to sleep but do check on them regularly during the night. If you’re at all concerned, contact your GP surgery or call an ambulance.
  For more information on how to assess your child’s fever and get an idea of what’s normal and when to get help, see our section: Symptoms of fever in children.

• 
  
  

  Your child or baby may look generally unwell if they’re dehydrated. They may pee less and have sunken eyes too. If they cry, they won’t produce any tears. Give your child something to drink regularly if they have a fever. If you’re breastfeeding, keep trying to feed your baby.

• 
  
  

  Yes, immunisation can sometimes cause a mild fever. Some vaccines – for example, tetanus – can cause a fever within a few hours. Others, such as the MMR vaccine, may lead to fever seven to 10 days later. When your child has a vaccine, ask your health professional what to do if your child develops a fever.

• 
  
  

  Febrile seizures (fits caused by a high temperature) can be very frightening but try to stay calm. Use your hands or a cushion to protect your child’s head. Once the seizure stops, put your child in the recovery position while they recover. Febrile seizures usually last just a few minutes and often don’t need any treatment. But if the seizure lasts for longer than five minutes, call for an ambulance.

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Fever – GBUZ City Children’s Clinical Hospital No. 1

Fever and its features in children.

Increase
temperature is the most common symptom of the disease in children, each child has at least 1 time per year
fever is noted. Temperature rise is also very common
forces the use of medicines, all feverish children receive antipyretic
means. This is facilitated by both the idea of ​​many parents about the dangers of high temperature,
and the desire of the doctor to alleviate the discomfort associated with febrile
reaction or at least make
appointment, the effect of which will be obvious.

Wrestling
with fever is an important element of treatment, but not an end in itself, since lowering the temperature
in most cases does not affect the course of the disease. That’s why
the desire to reduce the temperature by all means and keep it at
normal level indicates
only about a weak acquaintance with the causes and significance of fever.

Fever-
an increase in body temperature that accompanies
most infectious and some non-infectious (injuries,
inflammatory, autoimmune and oncological) diseases.

Normal
the child’s body temperature fluctuates during the day from 360C to 370C.

Fever
– a defensive reaction directed against the causative agent of infection. At
t 38.50C
and above, the synthesis of interferons is enhanced,
protein synthesis, leukocytosis is stimulated. All these factors reduce the ability to
reproduction of many microorganisms. Fever suppression reduces intensity
immune response. Fever is dangerous at temperatures closer to 410
C – mainly in children from risk groups. With a high fever, metabolism increases sharply, oxygen consumption
and the release of carbon dioxide, fluid losses increase, there is
extra stress on the heart and lungs. Initially healthy child
tolerates these changes easily, although experiencing discomfort, but in children with
pathology (often the central nervous system and congenital heart defects) can
worsen the condition significantly.

0001pt;text-align: justify;text-justify:inter-ideograph;text-indent:35.4pt”> Distinguish between “pink” and “white” (pale) fevers.
“Pink” fever signals the correspondence of heat production to heat transfer,
with it, the skin is pink, hot, moist to the touch, the child behaves normally. With “white”
fever, the skin is cyanotic or marbled, often appearing “goose bumps”
skin”, acrocyanosis, cold extremities.

FEVERS

Adverse
phenomena caused directly by fever are extremely rare.
The danger may be a disease that caused a fever that plays
protective role. The main danger of fever is dehydration, which is easily
prevented or corrected by the introduction of an additional amount
liquids. Violation of microcirculation, the signs of which are a marble pattern
skin, “goosebumps”, cold extremities, observed with “white” fever and
require restoration of microcirculation. Fever is not harmful
actions on the CNS.

K
dangers of fever include the possibility of developing febrile seizures, which
observed in 2-4% of those predisposed to
children, more often at the age of 12-18 months and do not have an unfavorable
influence on the central nervous system and its development.

In general, the hazards associated with
fever, are largely exaggerated, with most infections the maximum
temperature is set within 39.5-40.00 C, which does not threaten
persistent health problems.

0001pt;text-align: justify;text-justify:inter-ideograph;text-indent:35.4pt”> Fever
in a child always indicates a disease, but its severity, as
usually does not correlate with its severity. Many common viral
(eg, rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, pneumonia) and bacterial (otitis media,
urinary tract infection, impetigo) infections in immunocompetent individuals do not
have a severe course, against the background of antibiotic therapy or symptomatic
treatment, recovery is fast. Other infections (sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia,
purulent infections of bones and joints, pyelonephritis) without treatment often lead to
complications and sometimes even death. Most febrile
diseases in children is associated with viral infections and those bacterial,
which only briefly violate the health and do not pose a threat to the life of the child.

.Fever
in a child under the age of 3 months of life requires close monitoring due to
high risk of developing a serious bacterial infection.

“White (pale)” fever requires
restoration of microcirculation.

Fever
without catarrhal phenomena, rash and other visible local symptoms of infection
common with urinary tract infection, in children 0-3 years of age may indicate the development
bacteremia.

Preservation
febrile fever (more than 38.5 C) for more than 3 days, especially with rapid breathing
(including in the absence of catarrhal phenomena) may indicate
development of pneumonia.

Hemorrhagic
a rash (not blanching on pressure) with fever may indicate meningococcemia – in this case, emergency therapy is required.

Rigidity
occipital muscles or their soreness, bulging of the fontanel on the background of fever
indicates a CNS infection (meningitis).

Fever associated with abdominal pain and vomiting
requires exclusion of appendicitis.

Fever
with joint pain may be associated with bacterial arthritis, osteomyelitis.

Resistant
fever with rash, changes in the oral mucosa, scleritis,
an increase in lymph nodes requires the exclusion of Kawasaki disease.

0001pt;text-align: justify;text-justify:inter-ideograph;text-indent:35.4pt”> Continuous
(more than 2 weeks) fever requires examination to detect long-term
ongoing infections, connective tissue diseases, immunodeficiency,
oncological pathology.

TREATMENT
FEVER

Fever
is not an absolute indication for temperature reduction.

In cases where the reduction
temperature is necessary, there is no need to strive to bring it to normal – enough
decrease by 1-1.50С.

0001pt;text-align: justify;text-justify:inter-ideograph”> Readings
to decrease in temperature:

In previously healthy children older than
3 months:

– at body temperature above 39.00C -39.50C; and / or

– in the presence of a muscular or head
pain;

– in shock.

In children under 3 months of age:

– at body temperature above 380C.

In children with diseases of the heart, lungs,
CNS:

– at body temperature above 38.50C.

Uncontrolled
the use of antipyretics, especially “course”, creates the illusion
well-being and causes a belated appointment of etiotropic drugs.

Selection
antipyretics should be founded,
first of all, on their safety, and not on the strength of the effect. Ideally, an antipyretic drug for children should have
the ability to quickly and effectively reduce the temperature by at least 10C,
available in liquid form and as suppositories, rarely cause side effects
effects at therapeutic doses and have as wide a gap as possible between
therapeutic and toxic dose.

This
only two drugs, paracetamol and ibuprofen, currently meet this parameter.

B
pediatric practice prohibited the use of acetylsalicylic acid and nimesulide.

REFERENCE
FOR PARENTS

*temperature – protective reaction; her
should be reduced only according to the indications given above;

*adequate fluid administration
a feverish child is more important than a decrease in his temperature;

*not important in antipyretics
“strength”, but safety, to improve the patient’s condition, it is enough to reduce
temperature by 1-1. 50C;

* Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the most
safe drugs, it is important to adhere to the recommended one-time and daily
their dosages;

*do not prescribe antipyretic “course”
to prevent a rise in temperature, because you can see the progress
bacterial infection;

*do not use for the same reason
antipyretic drugs for longer than 3 days without consulting a doctor;

*with the development of “pale” fever with
spasm of the skin vessels, the introduction of an antipyretic agent should be combined with
vigorously rubbing the baby’s skin
until redness and immediately call a doctor.

Dengue fever

This viral fever occurs primarily in the tropics, but is distributed throughout the world. Is it dangerous for the inhabitants of our country, we tell in this article.

Dengue fever is an acute transmissible viral disease that occurs with fever, intoxication, myalgia, arthralgia, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

Dengue fever occurs predominantly in South and Southeast Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Caribbean.

In Russia, only imported cases of dengue fever are recorded among tourists who visited Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and the Dominican Republic.

The reservoir of infection is a sick person, monkeys and possibly bats.

Dengue virus vectors are female mosquitoes, mainly species Aedes aegypti
and to a lesser extent Aedes albopictus. A mosquito becomes contagious 8 to 12 days after it enters the body with the blood of a sick person and remains infected for the rest of its life.

From person to person, fever can only be transmitted through the blood. The risk of infection is possible in the case of a blood transfusion or when people use the same syringe. In other cases, there is no risk of contracting a fever.

The causative agent of the infection is dengue virus (DENV) of the family Flaviviridae . There are four distinct but closely related DENV serotypes, DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4, all of which can cause dengue fever.

After an infection, a person develops immunity only to the transferred serotype.

You can get dengue fever four times. Re-infection with a different serotype of the virus increases the risk of severe disease and death.

The incubation period lasts from 3 to 15 days.

The disease can be asymptomatic, be accompanied by mild symptoms, or occur as a severe illness.

As a rule, the disease begins acutely with a rise in temperature to 39 – 40 ° C. The fever lasts from 2-9 days and proceeds in waves: by the end of 3 days the temperature drops, after 1-3 days it rises again, then decreases after 2-3 days.

Other symptoms include severe headache, swollen lymph nodes, eye pain, nausea, vomiting, back pain, muscle and joint pain, especially knee pain.

The characteristic symptom is a profuse, itchy rash that first appears on the trunk, then spreads to the limbs. The rash persists for 3 to 7 days and leaves flaking behind.

In rare cases, a severe form of dengue fever – hemorrhagic – can develop. It is accompanied by pain in the abdomen, subcutaneous hemorrhages, bleeding from the nose, bleeding gums, vomiting and diarrhea with blood, internal bleeding.

In the absence of proper treatment, the hemorrhagic form of dengue fever is more often fatal.

In order to protect yourself from this disease, you must follow certain precautions.

Tourists traveling to dengue-endemic countries are advised to avoid mosquito bites:

• wear closed clothes,
• use repellents,
• use special screens for windows and doors,
• use aerosols, fumigators and other products designed to control mosquitoes indoors.

Persons who have previously had dengue fever and plan to re-enter an endemic focus, given the increased risk of developing a severe form of dengue fever, should be especially careful and be sure to use all protective measures against blood-sucking insects.