National Dengue Day 2024: When And How To Get Tested For Dengue Fever?

When to Get Tested:

Presence of Symptoms: Individuals with symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue should seek medical attention promptly. Symptoms usually appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite.

Travel History: Travellers from dengue-endemic regions should consider testing if symptoms develop within two weeks of return. Vigilance is necessary even after short trips to affected areas.

Local Transmission: In endemic areas or during outbreaks, testing is recommended for those with unexplained fever or dengue-like symptoms, even without a travel history.

Contact with Confirmed Cases: Close contacts of individuals diagnosed with dengue fever should monitor themselves for symptoms and seek testing if they develop signs of the illness.

How to Get Tested:

Visit a healthcare provider: Schedule an appointment if you suspect dengue fever or exposure. The provider will evaluate your symptoms and history to determine the need for testing.

Blood Tests: Diagnosis involves blood tests detecting the dengue virus or antibodies (NS1 antigen test, IgM, and IgG antibodies).

Hospitalisation for Severe Cases: Severe cases with warning signs (severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, shock) may require hospitalisation for monitoring and care.

Follow Healthcare Recommendations: Based on test results and illness severity, providers will recommend appropriate management, including rest, hydration, pain relief, and monitoring for complications.

Preventive Measures: Prevent mosquito bites using repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and utilising mosquito nets or screens, especially during peak biting times.

Inputs by: Dr. Ajay Shah, Managing Director, Neuberg Ajay Shah Laboratory