Can Dengue fever go away on its own? Can patients bathe?

The article was professionally consulted by the Head of the Department of Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Ha Long International General Hospital.
These months (March-April) and around early July to November each year are favorable times for the development of the Aedes mosquito. Dengue fever, although known as a long-standing disease, is now controlled in many ways, yet not everyone understands it well. Many questions arise about this disease, such as whether dengue fever can go away on its own or if patients can bathe during the illness. The article below will provide you with knowledge about this disease.

1. Favorable conditions for the outbreaks of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is an acute infectious disease caused by the Dengue virus. This virus is typically transmitted from person to person through the Aedes mosquito. If you happen to be bitten by this mosquito and the virus is transmitted into your body, you will develop dengue fever within 4-5 days.

It is noteworthy that these months (March - April) and around early July to November each year are favorable times for the development of the Aedes mosquito. In the Northern region, these two periods also coincide with strong dengue fever outbreaks. In the Southern region, due to the dense distribution of the Aedes mosquito, the disease can occur at any time.

The article is professionally consulted by Associate Professor, Doctor, Doctor Hoang Dang Mich - Head of Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Ha Long International Hospital.

2. Stages of disease development

The duration of dengue fever rash and whether dengue fever can resolve on its own greatly depend on each stages of disease development, including:

• Incubation Period: This period typically lasts 4-7 days on average. The Dengue virus gradually multiplies depending on the individual’s body and immune system. Once it reaches a sufficient quantity, it will cause specific symptoms, and the disease will move to the next stage.
• Dengue Fever Stage: This stage lasts about 2-7 days and often presents symptoms similar to the flu. This stage is not dangerous and can show symptoms such as headache, sore throat, nausea, fatigue,... and notably high fever (39 to 40 °C).
• Dangerous Stage: Most patients will no longer have a fever during this stage, but this is the most dangerous period determining whether the disease will become severe. During this time, the Dengue virus significantly weakens the immune system. Therefore, white blood cells and platelets decrease considerably, affecting the patient’s resistance. Daily monitoring and examination by a doctor are essential.
• Recovery Stage: If the patient passes through the critical stage, their body will gradually recover. At this time, heart rate and hemodynamics stabilize, urination becomes frequent, and there is a sense of hunger and thirst.

Thus, dengue fever theoretically can resolve on its own in mild to moderate cases. In practice, patients need to be examined to assess their condition and disease stage for specific medical advice from a doctor.

Generally, the progression of dengue fever varies among patients.

Dengue fever typically lasts for an average of 7 to 10 days. With proper care, it can resolve on its own without much intervention from a doctor.

3. Can patients bathe during Dengue fever?

Patients with dengue fever can generally bathe as usual. However, if platelet levels are significantly low, it is important to avoid vigorous scrubbing as it can cause subcutaneous or intramuscular bleeding, which is extremely dangerous.
Note: It is also important to note that from the end of the third day to the end of the seventh day of the illness, fever symptoms may significantly decrease. However, this does not mean the condition is improving. Other complications, such as increased vascular permeability, decreased platelets, and so forth,  may occur and cause bleeding of varying degrees.

Therefore, during this period, it is advisable to limit bathing as it can cause the blood vessels to dilate, worsening the bleeding condition. It is best to use a warm cloth to wipe the body. If bathing is unavoidable, use warm water. Never use cold water for bathing as it can cause the external blood vessels to constrict and the internal blood vessels to dilate, leading to a high risk of fatality.

Thus, whether patients with dengue fever can bathe depends on the specific case and stage of the disease. In general, bathing during the illness is not an issue if done according to the doctor's instructions and there is no absolute need to avoid it.

4. Some reminders you need to remember when caring for Dengue fever patients

• Regularly check temperature to monitor for high fever or abnormal body temperature.
• Use a warm cloth to cool the body. If the fever is high, place the cloth in the armpits and groin area to lower body temperature.
• Wear light and breathable clothing, preferably made from cotton.
• Avoid using medications like Aspirin or Ibuprofen to reduce fever, as the active ingredients in these drugs can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which is very dangerous. Instead, use Paracetamol as directed by a doctor.
• Drink plenty of fluids. You can give Oresol solution to help replenish electrolytes in the body.
• Only use medication if the patient's fever is high (above 38.5°C). A minimum interval between doses should be 4 to 6 hours.

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The article is compiled from sources by the Ministry of Health.