A vaccine for dengue fever has been approved and is commercially available in several countries. The vaccine, however, is only recommended for those previously infected. Other methods of prevention include reducing mosquito habitat and limiting exposure to bites. For typical dengue, different treatments are purely concerned with relieving the symptoms (symptomatic). Rest and fluid intake for adequate hydration are essential.
Treatment Besides Vaccination
The mainstay of treatment is timely supportive therapy to tackle shock due to hemoconcentration and bleeding. Close monitoring of vital signs in critical periods (between day 2 to day 7 of fever) is essential. Increased oral fluid intake is recommended to prevent dehydration. Supplementation with intravenous fluids may be necessary to avoid dehydration and blood concentration that is too significant if the patient cannot maintain oral intake. A platelet transfusion is indicated in rare cases if the platelet level drops significantly (below 20,000) or if there is significant bleeding. The presence of melena may indicate internal gastrointestinal bleeding requiring platelet and/or red blood cell transfusion.
People who suffer from dengue fever have no risk of death, but some of them develop Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). In some of these cases, death can occur. If a clinical diagnosis is made early, a healthcare provider can effectively treat DHF using fluid replacement therapy. Adequately management of DHF generally requires hospitalization.
Aspirin
Aspirin, Brufen, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided as they may worsen the bleeding tendency associated with some of these infections. If dengue is suspected, patients may receive paracetamol preparations for these symptoms. Doctors should be overcautious in prescribing medicines. Any medicines that decrease platelets should be avoided.
Traditional Treatment
In Brazilian traditional medicine, dengue is treated with a cat’s claw herb, which is for inflammation and does not prevent dengue. In Malaysia, some people treat dengue using natural medicine. The treatment is speculated to be able to arrest and reverse the viral infection and prevent the disease from advancing into a critical stage, though—however,n NNCE hasyet stosshow effectiveness In the Philippines, dengue patients use tawa-tawa herbs and sweet potato top juice to increase their platelet counts and revive the patients. These are traditional treatments and are often not based on scientific medical research.