Dengue: An encounter

There’s been hundreds of reported dengue cases all over the Philippines and death proved inevitable to a number of victims.  Dengue strikes people of all ages with low levels of immunity. 

My then 7 year old son had dengue back in Davao City last year. I was clueless; only that his fever was recurring which was of course disturbing. On the second day, I brought him to his pediatrician and was told to have his blood and urine tested. As feared, it was dengue. He had to be admitted that same day. My son had to endure 5 days of being confined in the hospital.

*Dengue fever is an acute illness of sudden onset that usually follows a benign course with fever, headache, exhaustion, rashes, and severe muscle pain, frequently accompanied by sore throat, dizziness, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is caused by a bite of a striped Aedes aegypti mosquito which has previously bitten an infected person. This type of mosquito spreads during rainy seasons but can breed all year round in standing water in flower pots, plastic bags, tires, and cans.There is no specific medicine or vaccine to treat dengue because it is caused by a virus. The treatment is to relieve the patient of the symptoms. To treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, intravenous fluids and electrolytes are necessary. Blood transfusions may be needed to control bleeding. Rest is important.

I have learned my lesson and been doing all precautions to avoid the same dilemma. My son's Pediatrician here in Roxas City has recommended a chemical free mosquito repellant which I gladly purchased because it's void of any harmful chemicals. It is 100% all natural which contains organic citronella oil which is a well known insect repellant; organic virgin coconut oil, known for its skin-healing, moisturizing and anti-microbial benefits.  It's definitely perfect for your kids and the whole family.

* Manila Bulletin