MALAYSIA is seeing a worrying increase in dengue cases. As of this year, 42,848 dengue cases have been reported nationwide, a 34.8% increase from 31,790 cases during the same period last year. More concerningly, dengue-related deaths have risen by 78.9%, from 19 to 34 fatalities.
With Aedes mosquitoes increasing in Malaysia's hot and humid climate, dengue remains a major public health concern. Understanding the symptoms, warning signs and proper treatment is crucial.
What is dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection spread through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito. While dengue is not spread directly from person to person, a mosquito can become infected after biting a dengue patient and then transmit the virus to others.
Can you get dengue more than once?
Yes. Dengue is caused by four different virus serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-4). Infection with one type does not protect against the others, meaning a person can be infected multiple times in their lifetime.
Common symptoms of dengue
Symptoms usually appear four to 10 days after a mosquito bite and may last two to seven days. Common symptoms include:
- High fever of 40˚C
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rash
Warning signs of severe dengue
Severe dengue can develop when the fever starts to subside. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from the nose or gums
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Restlessness
- Fatigue, feeling weak
Why is paracetamol recommended?
There is no specific treatment for dengue, so management focuses on relieving symptoms, maintaining hydration and monitoring for warning signs.
Both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Health Ministry (MOH) recommend paracetamol to help manage fever, headaches, muscle aches and joint pain associated with dengue.
However, not all fever medicines are suitable for dengue.
Patients with suspected or confirmed dengue should avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as these medicines may increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.
Key takeaway: For dengue-related fever and pain, choose paracetamol. Avoid NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Home care tips for dengue patients
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Get adequate rest to support recovery
- Use paracetamol appropriately for fever and pain relief
Lower your risk of getting dengue
Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using:
- Wear long-sleeved clothing
- Use mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or IR3535
- Use mosquito nets
- Dispose of solid waste properly and remove artificial habitats that can hold water
- Cover, empty and clean domestic water storage containers on a weekly basis.
Don't let your guard down
The sharp rise in dengue cases and deaths highlights the importance of early recognition and proper management. Know the symptoms, watch for warning signs, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention promptly.
For dengue fever and body aches, paracetamol is recommended by WHO and MOH, while NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided due to the increased risk of bleeding complications.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding your individual health condition.
