Good intake of fluids, complete bed rest helpful in dengue: Civil surgeon

The District Health Department reiterates its appeal to residents, urging them to eliminate stagnant water in and around their homes and to wear full-body covering clothes. Civil Surgeon Dr. Mahesh Kumar emphasizes the importance of these measures even as the weather cools down. He states, “Everyone still needs to be vigilant for the next 15 days for protection from dengue fever.”
Dr. Subhash Kumar, District Epidemiologist, adds that in case of dengue fever, there is no need to panic. Patients should promptly visit the nearest government health facility where dengue tests and treatment are absolutely free.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar clarifies, “Platelet count goes down with most viral fevers, and all viral fevers should not be taken as dengue fevers.” He recommends good fluid intake, healthy home food, and complete bed rest for those diagnosed with dengue.
Health officials assert that specific drinks or fruits like goat milk, coconut water, or kiwi fruit do not aid in increasing platelets. Patients are advised to consume a maximum amount of fluids such as water, juice, lemon water, and coconut water. Dr. Kumar states, “Drink at least two liters of water daily, which is also beneficial for a normal healthy person. Fluids not only prevent dehydration but also provide essential nutrients to the body.”
Teams from the District Health Department are actively engaged in an inspection, spray, and awareness campaign for Dengue fever prevention. They regularly check coolers, fridge trays, pots, empty tires, boxes, and other containers.
The Civil Surgeon appeals to the people of the district, stating, “Only with the help of the people could the district be made dengue-free.” For information, the health department’s helpline number 104 can be contacted.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar outlines symptoms of dengue, including sudden high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, intense joint and muscle pain, skin rash, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
Preventive measures highlighted by health officials include removing water from coolers and other small containers at least once a week, keeping overhead tanks covered, draining water from the back tray of the refrigerator weekly, using mosquito nets or repellents while sleeping during the daytime, and emptying and drying water storage utensils on a weekly basis.
Residents are urged to keep surroundings clean and dry to prevent mosquito breeding, dispose of plastic, coconut shells, empty tins, and cans, and spray insecticides on outdoor containers and water puddles in and around homes. Additionally, avoiding clothes that expose arms and legs, ensuring children do not play in shorts and half-sleeved clothes, and preventing water stagnation in bird feeding pots and uncovered toilet pots are crucial.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar concludes, “Do not give steroids or antibiotics to dengue patients, and avoid platelet transfusion unless there is an active bleed or the platelet count is less than 10,000.”