During the monsoon season, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue increases significantly. Recent reports indicate a rise in dengue cases across the Delhi-NCR region, driven by recent rainfall and water stagnation in various areas.

According to the latest report from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), 272 cases of dengue have been reported in the capital so far this year. Additionally, 95 cases of malaria and 21 cases of chikungunya have been recorded. Notably, 26 new cases of dengue, 15 of malaria, and two of chikungunya have emerged in the last week alone.

With the capital already grappling with a swine flu outbreak, the rise in dengue cases has created a "double attack" scenario. This disease, transmitted by *Aedes aegypti* mosquitoes, can become severe and even life-threatening for some individuals. Given these risks, health experts are advising everyone to remain vigilant and take precautions against mosquitoes.

**Dengue Can Be Severe**

The mention of dengue immediately brings the issue of platelet counts to mind; a drop in these counts during testing often causes concern. However, health experts note that the severity of dengue is not determined solely by platelet counts.

Often, a patient's condition begins to deteriorate, and the body shows warning signs even before the platelet report reflects the change.
Doctors advise that if you experience high fever accompanied by persistent, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, or extreme lethargy, you should not ignore these symptoms. These signs indicate that the illness could take a severe turn.

**Pay Attention to Abdominal Issues in Dengue**

Do not take sudden, severe abdominal pain lightly—whether it occurs alongside the fever or after the fever has subsided—as it could be a sign of severe dengue. Dengue patients also frequently experience vomiting. If a patient vomits repeatedly and fails to consume adequate water or other fluids, the risk of dehydration increases significantly. Bleeding from the nose or gums

Bleeding from the nose or gums can be a serious sign of dengue. Some individuals may also experience bleeding in their vomit or stool. Doctors state that in severe cases, dengue can cause excessive bleeding. Therefore, if any unusual bleeding is observed in a dengue patient, one should not simply wait at home assuming it is merely a common side effect of low platelet counts; the patient should be taken to a doctor immediately upon noticing such symptoms.

Fatigue and weakness

In severe dengue, the loss of bodily fluids can affect blood circulation. This poses a risk of complications such as low blood pressure and shock. In this state, the patient may suddenly experience extreme weakness, dizziness, or a sensation of fainting. Progressive weakness should not be dismissed as mere post-fever fatigue.

If a dengue patient suddenly experiences shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, they should be taken to a doctor immediately.

What do doctors say?
Doctors note that a major misconception regarding dengue is the belief that the illness has resolved once the fever subsides. However, severe symptoms of dengue can often manifest 24 to 48 hours after the fever has dropped. Therefore, it is crucial to continue monitoring the patient's health even after the fever has gone down.

Consult a doctor immediately if signs such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, extreme lethargy, restlessness, or breathing difficulties appear. While platelet testing is important in dengue, the severity of the illness cannot be determined solely by the platelet count.

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