With the current dengue outbreak in Kuala Lumpur & Selangor, you better know more about dengue fever, dengue symptoms, and how to protect your baby from mosquito bite.

Dengue is an acute viral infection characterised by fever and is one of the most common mosquito-borne diseases in this country. It is a major health concern today.

What are the Dengue fever symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of dengue fever usually begin four to seven days after you’ve been bitten by a mosquito carrying a dengue virus. These signs and symptoms can vary, depending on the form of the disease.

Dengue fever signs and symptoms typically include:

• High fever, up to 104° F (40° C)
• A rash over most of your body, which may subside after a couple of days and then reappear
• Severe headache, backache or both
• Pain behind your eyes
• Severe joint and muscle pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Low blood pressure and heart rate
• rash on arms and legs, severe itching, peeling of skin and hair loss
• minor bleeding (nose or gums) and heavy menstrual periods

Dengue hemorrhagic fever — a more severe form of the disease — can also cause:

• Significant damage to your blood and lymph vessels
• A decrease in the number blood cells that help your blood clot (platelets)
• Bleeding from the nose, mouth and under the skin, creating the appearance of bruising
• Death

Dengue shock syndrome — the most severe form of the disease — may also cause:

• Blood vessel fluid (plasma) leakage
• Heavy bleeding
• A sudden drop in blood pressure (shock)
• Death

What if I get dengue while I’m pregnant?

Dengue fever during pregnancy is not generally associated with increased risks to the mother. Most unborn babies remain unharmed even if the mother catches dengue during pregnancy. However, some of the symptoms and signs may mimic certain pregnancy conditions such as pre-eclampsia. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential. If the infection is virulent, it could lead to complications like pre-term labour and foetal anomalies. Furthermore, dengue virus antibodies in the mother can cross the placenta and be transferred to the baby. This may result in dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome in the baby.

How to protect my baby from mosquitoes?

1. Avoid places where mosquitoes thrive, such as lakes, woods, anywhere with stagnant water, flowery gardens or open food areas.
2. Find an insect repellent that’s safe for your baby. Buds Baby MozzieClear Lotion is a good choice as it is specially formulated natural mosquito repellent which uses unique blend of essential oils to keep the mosquitoes away. You can easily get this at most Baby retail outlet at RM29.90. If you are looking for mosquito repellent bands, then you can look for BUGSLOCK. “BugsLock” is a mosquito controlling product to repel the mosquito with a 100% natural aroma. You can get this at Kiddyplace (Cheras LeisureMall) at RM16.
3. Lightly spray an appropriate insect repellent on your baby’s clothes, then on your hands to spread on his or her skin.
4. Dark bright colours seem to attract insects, so it is best to dress your baby in light coloured clothing that does not leave too much exposed skin. Choose long sleeved tops, fitted garments like pants and jumpers instead of shorts and sleeveless tops.
5. Avoid risky areas during dusk and dawn, the times of day when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
6. Purchase mosquito netting for strollers, play mats and other places your baby may be outside.

How to treat mosquito bites on a baby?

1. Wash the area of the mosquito bite with a good anti-bacterial soap (this is especially important if the child has already scratched the area).
2. Apply over-the-counter anti-itch cream to the bite area. (Lucas Papaw ointment works well.) Consult your child’s pediatrician if you have any questions about the active ingredients in the ointment.
3. If anti-itch creams are not an option, cold vinegar dabbed on the area can help relieve some of the sting.
4. Cold compresses can reduce swelling and irritation

Hope the above information is helpful for all parents.