Viral Fever – Viral fever usually occurs due to presence of wide range of viruses in our atmosphere and the most common cause of Viral fever is transmission of virus through another person by the way of air or exchange of body fluids. People with lower immunity get trapped more easily and fall sick when exposed to such infections.
Dengue and Chikungunya are both vector borne diseases and mosquitoes carry these viruses. When the mosquito carrying the virus bites someone, the virus is transmitted to the human body. In both the cases patients have same presentation of high fever in the beginning. Later on body rash with low platelets count are commonly seen in Dengue and small joint pains like finger and toes are more common in Chikungunya.
As per Dr. Rajnish Kumar of Medharbour Family Clinic, Gurgaon, out of 300 fever patients over last 14 days, only 20% patients needed evaluations further and only 2% of the total patients were found positive for Dengue or Chinkungunya. Rest were the common cases of viral fever.
It generally takes 3-4 days of time for the investigation of both the viruses.
NS 1 – antigen is commonly done of patients with Dengue symptoms.
Chikungunya Antigen is done for chikungunya detection.
But, if fever and symptoms are persistent even after 9-10 days, Antibody (IGM/IGG) test should be done. RNA virus blood test can be done for sure shot detection in early stages of the virus but it is an expensive investigation.
It is advisable to increase the intake of fluids, coconut water, ORS to avoid dehydration. Eat foods that are easy to digest, have fruits like banana, papaya & apple.
Hospitalization is only needed when the platelet counts are falling constantly in Dengue. In the case of Chinkungunya, there is no need to get admitted unless and until patient stops having food or liquids orally.
If you want expert doctor advice you can consult via video or telephonic call at Medharbour.com
