Dengue fever
Dengue fever is a serious mosquito-borne viral illness that affects thousands of people in Sri Lanka every year, especially during the monsoon seasons. Prompt recognition of symptoms and early medical care can save lives. This page offers essential information about dengue fever in Sri Lanka, including how to identify it, when to seek help, and how to prevent it.
What Causes Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes usually bite during daytime, especially in early morning and late afternoon.
There are four types of dengue virus (DENV-1 to DENV-4). Infection with one type gives lifelong immunity to that type, but you can still get infected again with a different type, increasing the risk of severe dengue.
Common Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Symptoms appear 4–10 days after a mosquito bite and can range from mild to severe. Classic dengue symptoms include:
- Sudden high fever (over 39°C / 102°F)
- Severe headache (especially behind the eyes)
- Muscle and joint pain ("breakbone fever")
- Skin rash (appears after 2–5 days)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Mild bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding, easy bruising)
Warning Signs of Severe Dengue
Seek urgent medical attention if you notice:
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Bleeding from nose, gums, or under the skin
- Cold, clammy skin or low blood pressure
- Restlessness or drowsiness
These may indicate Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), which require hospital care.
How Is Dengue Diagnosed in Sri Lanka?
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and blood tests such as:
- NS1 Antigen Test – Detects virus early (day 1–5)
- Dengue IgM/IgG Antibody Tests – Show recent or past infection
- Full Blood Count (FBC) – Monitors platelet and white blood cell counts
Your doctor may repeat blood tests daily during the critical phase to monitor for complications.
Treatment for Dengue Fever
There is no specific antiviral medication for dengue. Treatment focuses on supportive care:
- Rest and hydration with fluids like water, king coconut, ORS
- Paracetamol for fever and pain (Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs)
- Hospital admission if platelets drop or warning signs appear
Do not self-medicate. Always consult a doctor if dengue is suspected.
Prevention of Dengue in Sri Lanka
Since there is no commercial dengue vaccine widely used in Sri Lanka yet, prevention depends on mosquito control:
Mosquito Control at Home:
- Eliminate standing water (flower pots, gutters, tires, water tanks)
- Use mosquito nets and screens
- Apply mosquito repellents on exposed skin
- Wear long sleeves and light-colored clothing
Community Awareness:
- Support local fogging and cleanup efforts
- Report stagnant water to municipal authorities
- Educate others about dengue prevention
Dengue Outbreaks in Sri Lanka
Dengue cases in Sri Lanka usually rise during the Southwest (May–July) and Northeast (November–January) monsoon seasons. The Ministry of Health and Epidemiology Unit provide weekly updates on outbreaks by district.
Visit www.epid.gov.lk for updates or follow virology.lk for simplified explanations and health tips.
When to See a Doctor
Always seek medical advice if you or your child develop a high fever and any of the dengue symptoms, especially during the rainy season. Early detection saves lives.
Conclusion
Dengue fever in Sri Lanka remains a major public health concern, but awareness, prevention, and timely care can reduce its impact. At virology.lk, we provide reliable, locally relevant information to help patients and families make informed decisions.