Bengaluru is facing a worrying surge in dengue-like illnesses (DLI) among children, as city hospitals report increasing numbers of young patients exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with dengue. While many of these children test negative for dengue, they continue to suffer from high fever, severe body aches, and extreme fatigue, leaving doctors concerned and parents anxious.
According to a consultant paediatrician at Motherhood Hospitals, DLI mirrors many symptoms of dengue but is often caused by other viral infections, including those transmitted by mosquitoes. “These illnesses lead to high-grade fever lasting for 3-4 days, along with a maculopapular rash, which is common in dengue but can also occur in viral infections like chikungunya or enterovirus,” the paediatrician explained. Doctors across Bengaluru are seeing 10-20 new cases of DLI weekly, with around 40% of these cases requiring hospitalisation due to complications such as severe dehydration, persistent high fever, vomiting, and difficulty in maintaining fluid intake.
In some instances, DLI can resemble severe dengue, with symptoms such as rapid breathing, severe abdominal pain, and altered mental status, requiring constant monitoring. One of the most concerning aspects of DLI is how closely the symptoms resemble dengue, making diagnosis difficult and often delaying treatment. This increases the likelihood of complications in children, with some experiencing mild bleeding, such as petechiae or gum bleeding, which heightens concern. Doctors attribute the rise in dengue-like illnesses to a combination of viral infections transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes species, which is responsible for spreading both dengue and chikungunya. A senior consultant in neonatology and paediatrics at Aster CMI Hospital highlighted that climate change, rapid urbanisation, and poor water management are contributing to the increase in mosquito populations, particularly during the rainy season, which is when DLI cases spike.
Adding to the complexity, children may be infected by multiple pathogens — viral, bacterial, or parasitic — at the same time, further complicating symptoms and delaying accurate diagnosis. Some children even experience lingering symptoms, with joint pain persisting long after the fever subsides, particularly when DLI symptoms mimic chikungunya. Another key concern raised by doctors is the widespread improper use of painkillers and self-medication by worried parents. A consultant paediatrician at Narayana Health City pointed out that taking painkillers without consulting a doctor can exacerbate DLI and increase the risk of complications. Even with mild symptoms, parents are urged to consult a doctor early to ensure accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Staying hydrated is also essential for recovery, as dehydration is a common issue among children suffering from DLI. A consultant in internal medicine at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital emphasised that even when symptoms appear mild, professional medical advice is crucial for a smooth recovery. Doctors recommend that parents take preventive steps to protect children from mosquito bites, particularly during peak mosquito activity times, and ensure their surroundings are clean and free of stagnant water. With Bengaluru’s climate and urban environment favouring mosquito breeding, these preventive measures can help reduce the chances of contracting mosquito-borne viral infections. While the rise in dengue-like illnesses is concerning, early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and preventive measures can go a long way in managing and reducing the impact of these illnesses on children.
