Exclusive: Dengue Cases Cross 1,000 In Karnataka, Doctors Warn Parents To Watch For These Signs

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With the onset of monsoon and surge in rainfall, a threat looms over Karnataka-not in the form of thunder, but in the rising whine of mosquitoes. The state has officially crossed the 1,000-case mark for dengue infections, even before the monsoon has properly arrived. What used to be a seasonal illness, largely expected during heavy rains has now started arriving early-driven by erratic weather patterns, increased rainfall, and poor water management.

In cities like Bengaluru, where urban expansion often outpaces infrastructure, stagnant water becomes an unwelcome reservoir for mosquito breeding. Children, with their playful routines and lower immunity, are especially vulnerable. And while awareness campaigns have become more common, misconceptions around dengue still persist-often delaying critical care and exposing families to unnecessary risk. Experts warn that the numbers are rising, and the time to act is now.

How Dengue Spreads

Dengue is caused by a virus transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito. Unlike the malaria-spreading mosquito that usually bites at night, the Aedes mosquito is active during the daytime-especially in the early morning and late afternoon hours. This makes daytime protective measures crucial, says Dr Vinay Hosadurga, a general physician at Vasavi Hospitals in Bengaluru to Boldsky, in an exclusive interview.

"People often think mosquitoes are only a nighttime problem. But with dengue, it's the daytime bites that matter most. Children, due to their frequent outdoor activities, are particularly at risk," he warns.

Common Symptoms Of Dengue In Children

Children infected with the dengue virus often display recurring fevers and persistent headaches. However, dengue can also present with less obvious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and even loose stools. A burning sensation in the stomach is another common complaint.
What makes dengue particularly dangerous is that its symptoms often resemble those of a common viral fever, leading to delayed or incorrect treatment. Dr Hosadurga advises parents to be especially cautious during the first two to four weeks of the pre-monsoon season. If any of these signs persist, medical attention should be sought immediately. Paracetamol may be administered to control fever, but over-the-counter medications like aspirin or ibuprofen should be avoided unless prescribed by a doctor, as they may increase the risk of bleeding.

Adequate rest and hydration are also essential components of at-home care, as they support the body's immune response and help mitigate complications.

Misconceptions About Dengue Busted

One common misconception is that dengue spreads through contact with dirty water or direct contact with infected individuals. The truth is that dengue is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person through physical touch, sharing food, or using the same utensils. It spreads only through mosquito bites.

Another dangerous myth is that breastfeeding mothers who contract dengue should stop nursing their babies. Dr. Hosadurga strongly counters this, stating that the virus is not transmitted through breast milk. On the contrary, breastfeeding should be continued, as it provides critical antibodies and hydration to the infant.

There is also a mistaken belief that once a child contracts dengue, they are immune for life. This is false and potentially harmful. In fact, there are four different strains of the dengue virus, and infection with one strain does not provide immunity against the others. Subsequent infections can be more severe due to a phenomenon known as antibody-dependent enhancement.

Warning Signs In Children

While some dengue cases can be managed at home under medical supervision, certain symptoms indicate the need for urgent medical intervention. According to Dr Hosadurga, the following signs should never be ignored:

• Persistent refusal to eat or constant vomiting
• Unusual restlessness, sleeplessness, or extreme fatigue
• Any signs of bleeding, such as from the nose or lips, or blood appearing in vomit or stool
• Severe stomach pain or tenderness in the abdomen
• Pale or bluish skin colour, cold extremities, or difficulty maintaining body warmth
• No urination for more than six hours, signalling possible dehydration or kidney strain

If any of these symptoms develop, parents must not delay seeking hospital care. Dengue can escalate quickly, and early medical attention significantly improves outcomes.

Prevention Tips For Parents

The most effective way to combat dengue is to prevent mosquito bites. Dr Hosadurga outlines several practical and essential steps parents can take to protect their children, according to Dr Hosadurga.

• Firstly, mosquito repellents and coils should be used during the day, especially in areas with poor ventilation or known mosquito activity. Parents should opt for child-safe repellents for young children, particularly when indoors.

• Secondly, children should be dressed in full-sleeved clothing, especially during early mornings and evenings when mosquitoes are most active. Light-coloured clothes are preferable, as mosquitoes are less attracted to them compared to dark colours.

• Another critical step is to ensure there is no stagnant water around the home. Even a small puddle in a flower pot or a clogged drain can serve as a breeding site for mosquitoes. Households should routinely check for and eliminate standing water in buckets, planters, coolers, and gutters.

• For infants under two months old, who may not be suited for repellents, mosquito nets offer an effective barrier. Nets should be used during naps and overnight to provide consistent protection.

• Parents should also limit children's outdoor play during peak mosquito hours. If staying indoors is not possible, ensure they are covered up and protected with topical repellents.

• Finally, educating children about mosquito prevention and hygiene can go a long way. When children understand why they must cover up or avoid puddles, they are more likely to cooperate and even remind others around them.

Parents must be proactive, informed, and alert. Simple daily precautions, timely medical attention, and busting long-held myths can go a long way in ensuring that children remain safe and healthy. As Dr. Hosadurga rightly puts it, "Dengue is preventable. But it takes everyone doing their part-especially at home."

International health days and government campaigns are important, but the real fight against dengue begins in our own backyards, classrooms, and living rooms. Stay informed, stay protected, and stay vigilant.