Doctors have advised patients suffering from dengue fever to take complete rest and drink plenty of fluid. Adequate fluid intake helps keep the body hydrated and maintain blood pressure, while rest aids in regaining strength and boosting immunity. Dengue patients are recommended to consume water, coconut water, oral rehydration solution (ORS), and fruit juices to prevent dehydration and facilitate quick recovery.
Nutritional Guidance for Dengue Patients
Dr. Md Abdul Quader, an associate professor of the Pediatrics Department at Dhaka Medical College (DMCH), highlighted the importance of feeding dengue patients nutritious food alongside liquids. He noted that dengue fever can lead to dehydration, weakness, fatigue, and a decrease in platelet count. Quader recommended including protein-rich foods such as fish, meat, pulses, eggs, nuts, milk, and yogurt in the diet. Additionally, he suggested consuming chicken soup, nuts, and milk shakes, which are easily digestible and beneficial.
Managing Fever and Rest
Dr. Hasan Hafizur Rahman, an associate professor of the Department of Medicine at DMCH, explained that dengue fever can cause body temperature to rise to 102 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. He advised reducing fever by applying water to the head and wiping the body, and administering paracetamol every six to eight hours based on the severity of the fever. Rahman emphasized that the primary treatment for dengue fever is maintaining adequate hydration with water, fruit juice, soup, ORS, and coconut water. He also stressed the importance of rest to allow the immune system to fight the disease effectively.
Current Dengue Situation in Bangladesh
According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), as of August 9, 19,345 people have been hospitalized due to dengue, with 61 deaths reported. Among the deceased, 22 were men and 39 were women. Of the infected individuals, 61.5 percent were men and 38.5 percent were women. This year, 28 deaths from dengue have occurred in the Dhaka division alone.
