Dengue Fever: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients in Nepal and Dengue Treatment in Kathmandu | Expert Care at Inova Hospital
Dengue fever is a significant public health concern in Nepal, affecting thousands each year. At Inova Hospital Kathmandu, our team of internal medicine specialists, led by experts like Dr. Amit Shrivastav, is dedicated to providing advanced care and clear information to keep our community safe. This guide covers everything you need to know about dengue, from its symptoms to the expert treatment available at our facility.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti mosquito, identifiable by the white stripes on its legs and body. Often called “break-bone fever,” it causes severe muscle, joint, and bone pain. Since the first reported case in Nepal in 2004, the virus has spread, with over 41,000 cases and 15 deaths reported in 2024 alone across 76 districts.
The dengue virus (DENV) has four serotypes. Infection with one provides lifelong immunity to that specific type but only short-term protection against the others, meaning a person can be infected up to four times in their lifetime.
How Dengue Spreads in Kathmandu
The primary carriers, Aedes mosquitoes, are day-biters, most active during early morning and just before dusk. They thrive in stagnant water, commonly found in urban settings like Kathmandu. Understanding this pattern is crucial for prevention.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Dengue
After an incubation period of 4-7 days, symptoms can appear suddenly. It’s vital to monitor for these signs:
High Fever: A sudden, high fever (104°F / 40°C), which may dip and return.
Severe Pain: Intense headache, pain behind the eyes, and severe muscle and joint pain.
Nausea and Vomiting: Particularly persistent in severe cases.
Skin Rash: A measles-like rash that may appear as the fever subsides.
Extreme Fatigue: Profound tiredness and lethargy.
Note: A critical drop in platelet count (thrombocytopenia) typically begins after the fever breaks.
Severe Dengue: Know the Warning Signs
While most cases are mild, some can progress to severe dengue, a life-threatening medical emergency. Be alert for these critical warning signs:
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting (more than once or twice)
Bleeding from the gums, nose, or blood in vomit/stool
Rapid breathing and restlessness
Fatigue and lethargy
Severe dengue can lead to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (plasma leakage, bleeding, and organ failure) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (a dangerous drop in blood pressure). If you or a family member experience any of these warning signs, seek immediate medical attention at Inova Hospital Kathmandu.
Expert Diagnosis and Treatment at Inova Hospital Kathmandu
Our state-of-the-art laboratory provides accurate and rapid diagnosis to guide effective treatment:
NS1 Antigen Test: Detects the virus in the early stages of infection.
IgM Antibody Test: Confirms a recent infection (3-5 days after symptoms begin).
IgG Antibody Test: Indicates a past infection and immunity to a specific serotype.
Our Treatment Protocol
There is no specific cure for the dengue virus, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Symptomatic Relief: We use safe pain relievers like Acetaminophen (Paracetamol). Avoid NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen, Naproxen) as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Aggressive Hydration: Crucial to prevent dehydration from fever and vomiting. In severe cases, hospitalization for intravenous (IV) fluids is necessary to stabilize the patient.
Specialized In-Patient Care: We recommend admission at Inova Hospital if the platelet count falls below 50,000 or if any warning signs are present. Our critical care team provides continuous monitoring, fluid management, and supportive care to ensure the best possible outcome.
Myth Busting: Despite popular belief, papaya leaf extract and related products have not been proven effective in treating dengue in clinical studies. Rely on proven medical care.
Trust Inova Hospital Kathmandu for Your Care
Dengue can be unpredictable. Having a trusted medical partner is essential. The internal medicine team at Inova Hospital Kathmandu is equipped with the expertise, technology, and compassion to provide comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery.
If you suspect you have dengue, do not wait. Contact Inova Hospital Kathmandu for a consultation or visit our emergency department for immediate care.
Your health is our priority.
