In short: Dengue causes high fever, body ache and headache. The dangerous phase often starts as the fever settles, usually on days 3–7. Come to hospital immediately for tummy pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding gums or nose, unusual sleepiness or restlessness, or reduced urine. Give only paracetamol for fever — never ibuprofen or aspirin.
How children get dengue
Dengue is a viral infection spread by the Aedes mosquito, which bites mainly during the daytime and breeds in clean, stagnant water — flower pots, coolers, tyres, water tanks and buckets. Cases in Bangalore rise during and after the monsoon.
Common symptoms
- Sudden high fever, often 39–40°C, lasting 2–7 days
- Headache and pain behind the eyes
- Body, muscle and joint pain
- Tiredness and loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- A red rash, sometimes appearing as the fever settles
Young children may simply have fever, irritability and poor feeding, which can look like any viral illness — so tests matter.
The three phases of dengue
| Phase | Usual timing | What you see | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fever phase | Days 1–3 | High fever, body ache, headache, poor appetite | Fluids, paracetamol only, see your pediatrician |
| Critical phase | Days 3–7, as fever settles | Child may look worse; platelets can drop | Watch closely for warning signs; daily review |
| Recovery phase | After day 7 | Appetite returns, sometimes an itchy rash | Rest; follow up until blood counts recover |
The critical phase: why “the fever has gone” isn’t the end
Many children feel worse, not better, around the time the fever comes down. For about 24–48 hours, fluid can leak from blood vessels and platelets can drop. This is when complications happen, so watch closely for the warning signs below even if your child’s temperature is normal.
Warning signs — go to hospital immediately
- Tummy pain or tenderness
- Persistent vomiting or unable to keep fluids down
- Bleeding from gums or nose, blood in vomit or stool, or new bruises
- Unusual sleepiness, irritability or restlessness
- Cold, clammy hands and feet
- Passing very little urine (none for 6–8 hours)
- Fast breathing or breathlessness
Care at home (when there are no warning signs)
- Fluids, fluids, fluids: ORS, water, coconut water, soups, buttermilk and juices in small, frequent sips.
- Paracetamol for fever and pain, at the correct dose for your child’s weight, not more often than advised.
- Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin and other painkillers — they can increase bleeding risk.
- Rest, and a daily check with your pediatrician during the critical days.
- Keep a simple note of fluid intake and how often your child passes urine.
Tests your pediatrician may suggest
- NS1 antigen — useful in the first few days of fever
- Dengue IgM antibody — after about day 5
- Complete blood count — platelets and haematocrit, often repeated daily to watch the trend
There’s no specific antiviral medicine for dengue; careful monitoring and the right fluids are what keep children safe.
Prevention
- Empty and scrub water containers weekly; cover water tanks.
- Use mosquito nets, screens and child-safe repellents, especially during the day.
- Dress children in long sleeves and trousers during peak mosquito season.
If your child has had fever for more than 2 days, or any warning sign, don’t wait. Genesiss Multi-Speciality Hospital is open 24 hours a day — contact us or book a pediatric consultation.
