The Aga Khan University Hospital, Pakistan > Diseases and Conditions

Dengue

​Dengue is a virus that is transmitted via mosquito bites resulting in either a mild dengue fever or haemorrhagic fever. Mild dengue fever is accompanied by development of rashes and muscle and joint pain. Haemorrhagic fever results in severe bleeding, sudden drop in blood pressure and if not treated, death.

Early symptoms for dengue are similar to flu or malaria and may include:

  • Sudden and high fever

  • Headaches

  • Muscle and joint pain

  • Pain behind the eyes

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Rash

In case of haemorrhagic fever, these symptoms worsen to include

  • Rapid breathing

  • Bleeding gums

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Abdominal pain​​

If you develop any of the signs and symptoms related to dengue then consult your family doctor at the Family Health Services immediately. Based on the diagnosis he/she may refer you for treatment. Alternatively, you can consult the doctors at the Internal Medicine Service Line at The Aga Khan University Hospital.​​
Your time with your doctor maybe limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​​
Dengue is primarily diagnosed by a blood test to detect for strains of the virus in your bloodstream. Due to its similarity in symptoms with other diseases such as malaria, dengue is usually difficult to diagnose early.​​

There is no direct treatment for dengue. Initial measures include bed rest and high intake of fluids to counteract dehydration from vomiting. Normal painkillers such as aspirin are to be avoided as they lead to complications. Acetaminophen may be taken instead to reduce fever and decrease muscle pain. In severe cases of dengue fever you may require supportive care at the hospital where you will be monitored for:

  • Dehydration and replacement of electrolytes

  • Platelets count and transfusion in case of blood loss

  • Blood pressure monitoring​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialized clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatments’ costs and authorize admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies allow. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.​

Your doctor and or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose or severe reaction please contact the Pharmacy Service at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.​
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​The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.