5 Common Myths About Dengue Testing Debunked

For a mosquito-borne disease, irrespective of the season, it is important to be alert because it continues to pose a threat. Globally, dengue has caused millions of deaths over time. While there isn't a specific cure for dengue fever, most cases are self-limiting and can be effectively managed with timely and supportive care.

Early detection plays a key role in managing dengue effectively. Getting tested at the right time helps ensure proper care and a quicker recovery. Despite this, there are still several misconceptions surrounding dengue testing.

However, there are certain myths about the dengue test which need to be debunked for a better understanding.

Introduction to Dengue

Dengue is one of the vector-borne diseases transmitted by a mosquito. It is transmitted through the bite of a female mosquito of the species Aedes aegypti. This species is prevalent in tropical nations but uncommon in temperate countries.

When it comes to symptoms from the dengue infection, people may face different types of symptoms. Dengue fever is painful, if not treated, can lead to several complications. Again, there are two forms of fever: Dengue Fever (DF), which is milder, and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, which is more severe and causes bleeding.

5 Myths of Dengue Testing

1) Symptoms alone are not Enough for Treatment

While dengue symptoms include a high fever, severe headache, joint and muscular pain, and moderate bleeding, they can also be associated with other viral illnesses, such as Zika virus. Relying solely on symptoms can result in a misdiagnosis or a delay in proper treatment.

This is why doctors may recommend undergoing the dengue tests, such as the NS1 antigen test and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to identify the sign of dengue at an early stage. These tests aid in differentiating dengue from other infections and ensuring a timely medical response.

2) Dengue tests are done only during High Fever

It is the common myth among people that dengue test is only needed during high fever. However, dengue can manifest with low-grade fever or even without fever, particularly in cases of secondary dengue infection.

Facing secondary infections is quite serious due to antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), resulting to complications such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS). Doctors always advise undergoing the early stage of testing to identify dengue signs.

3) Negative means you have no dengue

It is common misconception among people that one negative test rules out the sign of dengue. It is important to check the accuracy of the test and compare the result. Here is how you can find-

●       The NS1 antigen test shows accurate results in the first five days after the fever starts.

●       IgM antibodies usually emerge after 4-5 days and remain detectable for weeks.

●       IgG antibodies emerge later and could indicate a previous illness.

●       PCR testing is extremely accurate, yet it is typically limited to well-equipped laboratories.

4) Dengue Testing is limited to Elderly People

Another harmful misconception is that only older persons or people with compromised immune systems fall under the category of dengue testing. This notion results in ignoring early signs of dengue infection early signs of infection in children and young. This ignorance can result in a rise in the case of dengue cases. One should be aware that dengue doesn't discriminate between sexes, age, or region.

Regardless of age or health state, anyone exhibiting dengue symptoms or residing in a high-risk location should consider testing, particularly during outbreaks.

5) No need for Follow up after Test

Dengue has three separate phases: febrile, critical, and recovery. Symptoms and health hazards differ with each level. Even after initial therapy and symptom relief, problems including dehydration, internal bleeding, or organ damage can occur unexpectedly. People usually avoid undergoing follow up or further testing once cured.

Few Reasons for Follow-up

●       Platelet counts may plummet during the crucial phase, raising the risk of bleeding.

●       Important to monitor blood pressure, fluid levels, and other vital indicators.

●       Follow-up tests may be necessary to confirm full healing and avoid problems.

What are the Preventive Measures for Dengue?

There are a few preventive measures one must follow to get minimal impact from dengue. Some of these are-

●       Opt for clothing that covers your arms and legs, especially during warmer months, to minimize mosquito exposure.

●       Empty and refreshing standing water in items like buckets, flower vases, coolers, and mini fountains at least once every week to prevent mosquito breeding.

●       Whenever possible, keep water containers tightly covered with a lid.

Conclusion

Dengue is a serious public health concern so misconceptions about dengue test not only generate undue anxiety but also impede proper diagnosis and treatment. Following the right steps is always a better option than getting trapped in dengue disease.