How To Differentiate Between Seasonal Cold And Cough And Dengue

Differentiating between a seasonal cold or cough and dengue can be crucial for timely medical intervention. In the case of a common cold or cough, symptoms typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, and sometimes a mild fever. These symptoms are usually short-lived and can be managed with rest and over-the-counter medications. However, dengue fever presents with distinct characteristics such as high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, rash, and a drop in platelet count, which can lead to bleeding.

Dr. Neha Mishra who is a Consultant of Infectious Diseases at Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, exclusively told Jagran English about How to differentiate between seasonal colds and cough and dengue. 

Do you know that dengue fever presents with distinct characteristics such as high fever, severe joint and muscle pain. (Image Credit: Canva)

Dr. Neha said The common thing among the seasonal flu and Dengue fever is that both of them are diseases spread by Viruses and they may have some similar symptoms to begin with. Although they are quite different in terms of mode of spread, pathogenesis, and treatment.

Also Read: This Winter Season Add These 7 Fruits Into Your Diet For Natural Radiant Skin 

Dengue - It is caused by the Dengue virus which belongs to the family flaviviruses. It is spread by vector Aedes Aegypti Mosquitoes. Patients can develop the symptoms within 8-12 days after the mosquito bite. Symptoms vary from high-grade fever, severe myalgia, backache, headache, rash, etc. If there is a delay in diagnosis and patient care, then they can end up with complications like Bleeding manifestations and shock. Treatment for Dengue is predominantly symptomatic and revolves around proper hydration.

Common cold or cough, symptoms typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat and sneezing. (Image Credit: Canva)

Similarities - The only similarity can be in the symptoms – i.e., they both can present with high-grade fever and myalgias. If Seasonal flu has less prominent respiratory symptoms, then it can be confused for Dengue or for that matter any other viral illness.

Also Read: What Are The Health Benefits Of Eating Early Dinner At Night | Experts Explains