National Guidelines for

Clinical Management of
Dengue Fever

National Vector Borne Disease

Control Programme
Release of the National Guidelines for Clinical Management of dengue Fever
Prof (Dr) Jagdish Prasad, Director General of Health Services, Government of India
released the new Guidelines on 19 December 2014 during the National Consultation on
Dengue with Special Focus on Case Management held at Hotel Lalit, New Delhi in the
presence of Dr Nata Manabde, WHO representative to India; Dr Mohmmad Jamsheed
Ahmed, Medical Officer, Vector Borne and Neglected Diseases, WHO, SEARO;
Professor Siripen Kalayanarooj, Former Director, Queen Sirikit, NICH, Bangkok,
Thailand; Professor Ashutosh Biswas, Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi and
Dr A.C. Dhariwal, Director NVBDCP.
National Guidelines for
Clinical Management of
Dengue Fever
 World Health Organization 2015

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 Contents

Preface by Director General of Health Services i

Message from WHO Representative to India ii

Acknowledgements by Director NVBDCP iv

List of contributors vi

Abbreviations vii

1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Global scenario 1
1.2 National scenario 1

2 EPIDEMIOLOGY 3
2.1 Dengue virus 3
2.2 Molecular epidemiology 3
2.3 Vector 4
2.4 Environmental factors 5
2.5 Host factor 5
2.6 Transmission cycle 5

3 CLINICAL MANIFESTATION OF DF/DHF 6

3.1 Immunopathogenesis 6
3.1.1 Capillary leakage and shock 6
3.1.2 Coagulopathy in dengue 6
3.1.3 Causes of bleeding in DF/DHF 7
3.1.4 Causes of thrombocytopenia 7
3.2 Clinical manifestations of DF/DHF 7
3.2.1 Undifferentiated dengue fever (UDF) 8
3.2.2 Severe DF 8
3.2.3 DF with warning signs and symptoms 8
3.2.4 High-risk groups 9
3.2.5 Expanded dengue syndrome (EDS) 9
3.2.6 Dengue infection in paediatric age groups 10
3.3 Clinical criteria for DF/DHF/DSS 11
 3.4 Case definition 12
3.5 Natural course of dengue infection 12
3.5.1 Febrile phase 12
3.5.2 Critical phase (leakage phase) 12
3.5.3 Convalescent phase (recovery phase) 12
3.6 Differential diagnosis of DF/DHF 13
3.7 Dengue case classification 13
3.8 Grading of DF/DHF 14

4 LABORATORY DIAGNOSIS 15
4.1 Laboratory diagnosis tests 15
4.1.1 ELISA-based NS1 antigen tests 15
4.1.2 IgM-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (MAC-ELISA) 15
4.1.3 Isolation of dengue virus 16
4.1.4 Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) 16
4.1.5 IgG-ELISA 16
4.1.6 Serological tests 16
4.1.7 RDTs 16
4.2 Collection of samples 16
4.3 NVBDCP-recommended tests for laboratory diagnosis 17
4.4 Supply of kits 17

5 CLINICAL MANAGEMENT 18
5.1 Management 18
5.1.1 Management of DF 18
5.1.2 Management during the febrile phase 18
5.1.3 Management of DHF grade I and II 19
5.1.4 Management of shock (DHF grade III/IV) 19
5.2 Management of severe bleeding 19
5.3 Management of DF/DHF with co-morbid illness 20
5.3.1 Dengue viral hepatitis 20
5.3.2 Dengue myocarditis 20
5.3.3 DF in diabetes 20
5.3.4 Renal involvement in DF 20
5.3.5 CNS involvement in DF 21
5.4 Management of DF with coinfections 21
5.4.1 TB 21
5.4.2 HIV 21
5.4.3 Malaria 21
5.4.4 Chikungunya 21
5.4.5 Enteric fever 21
5.5 Management of dengue in pregnancy 21
5.6 Management of neonatal dengue 22
5.7 Management of dengue in infants 22
5.7.1 Management of dengue among infants without warning signs 22
5.7.2 Management of dengue among infants with warning signs 22
5.7.3 Management of infants with severe dengue: treatment of shock 22
 5.8 Criteria for admission of a patient 22
5.9 Criteria for discharge of patients 23
5.10 Management of dengue fever in an outbreak situation 23
Chart 1 - Volume replacement algorithm for patients with DHF grades I & II 24
Chart 2 - Volume replacement algorithm for patients with DHF grade III 25
Chart 3 - Volume replacement algorithm for patients with DHF IV (DSS) 26
5.11 Calculation of fluid 27
5.12 Indications for platelet transfusion 29
5.13 Vaccine for dengue infection 29

6 MANAGEMENT AND REFERRAL OF DENGUE CASES AT PRIMARY

HEALTH-CARE LEVEL 30
6.1 Diagnosis of dengue cases 30
6.2 Management and referral of dengue cases at PHC level 31

7 NURSING CARE IN ADMITTED CASES 32

7.1 Basic management 32
7.2 Warning signs and symptoms 32
7.3 Managing common problems in dengue patients 32

ANNEXURES 34
Annexure 1 Ready reckoner 34
Annexure 2 Platelet products 36
ii
 Message from WHO Representative to India

Over the last five decades, dengue has emerged globally as a critical threat to population
health. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 50100 million dengue
infections occur each year and that almost half the world's population lives in countries
where dengue is endemic.

Today, dengue ranks as the most important mosquito-borne viral disease in the world. The
emergence and spread of all four dengue viruses (serotypes) represent a global pandemic.
While dengue is a global concern, currently close to 75% of the global population exposed to
dengue are in the Asia-Pacific region.

Mortality from dengue can be reduced to zero by immediately implementing timely,

appropriate clinical management, which involves early clinical and laboratory diagnosis,
intravenous rehydration, staff training and hospital reorganization and training health
personnel, along with appropriate referral systems, at primary health-care levels.

Dengue morbidity can also be reduced by implementing improved outbreak prediction and
detection through coordinated epidemiological and entomological surveillance; promoting
the principles of integrated vector management and deploying locally-adapted vector
control measures including effective urban and household water management. Effective
communication can achieve behavioral outcomes that augment prevention programmes.

In India, resurgence of epidemic dengue activity poses a major public health challenge. This
upsurge has been associated with the geographical expansion of both the mosquito vectors
and the viruses.

A Joint Monitoring Mission (JMM) on vector-borne diseases was conducted from 01 to 10

March 2014 in New Delhi. It clearly noted the deficiency in the competence of clinicians in
clinical diagnosis and management of dengue and recommended that the capacity of health
staff must be strengthened, especially to manage severe forms of the disease. The JMM
also recommended focus on effective triage and case management at primary and
secondary levels and adequate referral mechanisms for critical cases.

This document on the new guidelines for the clinical management of dengue will address
many of these issues. I am certain it will strengthen our ability and preparedness to address
this recurrent epidemic in India.

Dr Nata Menabde
WHO Representative to India

iii
iv
v
 List of contributors

Name of Experts

1. Prof Ashutosh Biswas, Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi

2. Dr Veena Devgan, HOD, Pediatrics, Hindu Rao Hospital, Delhi
3. Dr Ghanshyam Pangtey, Associate Prof. Medicine, LHMC, New Delhi
4. Dr Kabita Chatterjee, Addl Prof. Transfusion Medicine & faculty I/c Blood Bank,
AIIMS, New Delhi

Directorate of NVBDCP

1. Dr Kalpana Baruah, Joint Director

2. Dr P.K. Sen, Additional Director
3. Dr A.C. Dhariwal, Director

vi
 Abbreviations

ABG arterial blood gas

Ae. Aedes
AKI acute kidney injury
ALT alanine aminotransferase
AP aphaeretic platelet
aPTT activated partial thromboplastin time
ARDS acute respiratory distress syndrome
ARL apex referral laboratory
AST aspartate aminotransferase
ATN acute tubular necrosis
BCPP buffy coat pooled platelet
C core protein
CAD coronary artery disease
CBC complete blood count
CF complement fixation
CFR case fatality ratio
CNS central nervous system
COPD chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
CSF cerebrospinal fluid
DALY disability-adjusted life year
DENV dengue virus
DF dengue fever
DHF dengue haemorrhagic fever
DIC disseminated intravascular coagulation
DLC differential leukocyte count
DSS dengue shock syndrome
E envelope protein
EDS expanded dengue syndrome
FDP fibrinogen degradation product
FFP fresh frozen plasma
G6PD glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
GFR glomerular filtration rate
GoI Government of India
Hct haematocrit

vii
HI hemagglutination-inhibition
HIV human immunodeficiency virus
NASBA nucleic acid sequence-based amplification
NS non-structural
NSAID nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
NT neutralization test
NVBDP National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme
ORS oral rehydration solution
PCR polymerase chain reaction
PCV packed-cell volume
PHC primary health centre
PRBC packed red blood cells
PT prothrombin time
RDP random donor platelets
RDT rapid diagnostic test
RT-PCR reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction
SDP single donor platelet
SEAR WHO South-East Asia Region
SLE systemic lupus erythematosus
SSH sentinel surveillance hospital
TB tuberculosis
TLC total leukocyte count
TTI transfusion transmitted infection
UDF undifferentiated dengue fever
WHO World Health Organization

viii
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION
Dengue is the most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral disease of mankind, with a 30-
fold increase in global incidence over the last five decades. It is a major public health
concern throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Almost half the world's
population lives in countries where dengue is endemic. According to World Health
Organization (WHO), about 50100 million new dengue infections are estimated to occur
annually in more than 100 endemic countries, with a steady increase in the number of
1
countries reporting the disease.

1.1 Global scenario

Dengue has been identified as one of the 17 neglected tropical diseases by WHO as
2
mentioned in their first report on neglected tropical diseases (2010). Although the full global
burden of the disease is still uncertain, the patterns are alarming for both human health and
the economy. Every year, hundreds of thousands of severe cases arise, of which 20 000
lead to death. The loss to the economy is 264 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per
3,4
million population per year.

Approximately 1.8 billion (more than 70%) of the population at risk for dengue worldwide live
in Member States of the WHO South-East Asia Region (SEAR) and Western Pacific
5
Region, which bear nearly 75% of the current global disease burden due to dengue. Of the
11 countries of SEAR, 10 countries including India are endemic for dengue. The only
exception is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. In 2012, SEAR countries reported
approximately 0.29 million cases, of which Thailand contributed almost 30%, Indonesia
29% and India 20%. Similarly, Western Pacific countries have reported 0.33 million cases,
of which Philippines contributed almost 52%, Vietnam 24% and Cambodia 14% (source
WHO).5 The true numbers are probably far more, since severe underreporting and
misclassifcation of dengue cases have been
documented by the countries.3

1.2 National scenario

Dengue virus was isolated in India for the first time in
1945. The first evidence of occurrence of dengue fever
in the country was reported in 1956 from Vellore district
in Tamil Nadu. The first dengue hemorrhagic fever
(DHF) outbreak occurred in Calcutta (West Bengal) in
1963.6,7

The states/districts that have reported DF/DHF since

1991 are shown in Figure 1. Fig. 1. States/Districts that reported
dengue cases since 1991 in India

1
Of the 36 states/UTs, 35 (all except Lakshadweep) have reported dengue cases during the
last two decades.

Recurring outbreaks of dengue fever(DF)/DHF have been reported from various states/
UTsAndhra Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Goa, Haryana, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala,
Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

During 1996, one of the most severe outbreaks of DF/DHF occurred in Delhi, with 10 252
cases and 423 deaths being reported (country total being 16 517 cases and 545 deaths). In
2006, the country witnessed an outbreak of DF/DHF with 12 317 cases and 184 deaths. The
incidence of dengue is increasing in the last few years. During 2010, a total of 28 292 cases
were reported, which increased to 50 222 in 2012 and 75 808 in 2013 the highest since
1991. The case fatality ratio (CFR deaths per 100 cases) has declined from 3.3% in 1996
to 0.4% in 2010 after the national guidelines on clinical management of DF/DHF/dengue
shock syndrome (DSS) were developed and circulated in 2007. This further declined to
7,8
0.3% in 2013.

Every year, during the period JulyNovember, an upsurge in the cases of dengue/DHF has
been observed. The disease has a seasonal pattern; the cases peak after the monsoons
and are not uniformly distributed throughout the year. However, the states in the southern
and western parts of the country report perennial transmission. The seasonal trends for
201013 are given in Figure 2.

Fig. 2. Seasonal trend of dengue cases in India 20102013

As Ae. aegypti breeding was more common in urban areas, the disease was observed to be
mostly prevalent in urban areas. However, the trend is now changing due to socioeconomic
and man-made ecological changes that have resulted in the invasion of Ae. aegypti
mosquitoes into the rural areas. This has significantly increased the chances of spread of
the disease in rural areas.

2
 CHAPTER 2

EPIDEMIOLOGY
Dengue ranks as the most important, rapidly emerged mosquito-borne viral disease in
recent years and is endemic in all continents. It has shown an increase due to various
reasons construction activities, lifestyle changes, deficient water management, improper
water storage, stagnation of rain water in containers lying outside houses and practices
leading to proliferation of vector breeding sites in urban, semi-urban and rural areas.

The epidemiology of dengue is an intricate phenomenon which depends upon a complex

relationship between epidemiological factors, viz. host (man and mosquito), agent (virus)
and the environment (abiotic and biotic factors). The complexity of relationship among
these factors eventually determines the level of endemicity in an area. During inter-
epidemic periods, the transmission of dengue remains low due to extremes of temperature
with low relative humidity, but during monsoons the environment becomes suitable for
vectors. Temperatures in the range of 25oC 50C, relative humidity around 80% and
innumerable small water collections result in high vector density.

2.1 Dengue virus

The agent of dengue, i.e. dengue viruses, are
categorized under the genus Flavivirus. These viruses
contain single stranded RNA and are small in size (50
nm). There are four dengue virus serotypes which are
designated as DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-
4. These serotypes may be in circulation either singly, or
more than one can be in circulation in any area at the
same time. Although all four serotypes are antigenically
similar, they are different enough to elicit cross-
protection only for a few months after infection by any
one of them. Infection with any one serotype confers Fig. 3. Dengue virus under
electron microscope
lifelong immunity to the virus serotype.

An electron microscopic view of dengue virus is given in Figure 3.

2.2 Molecular epidemiology

The four dengue virus types (DENV-14), called dengue virus serotypes, form a
phylogenetic group and differ in nucleotide sequence from each other. These are closely
related to one another rather than to other flaviviruses and form an antigenic complex of
their own. The following subtypes or genotypes are also detected within each serotype,
7,9
based on their phylogenetic analysis of the genomic region in the envelope gene:

3
 DENV-1 : three
DENV-2 : two (one non-human primate)
DENV-3 : four
DENV-4 : four (one non-human primate)

The four dengue virus serotypes can co-circulate in the endemic areas because the
immunity to one serotype does not afford protection from the infection by a heterotopous
serotype. Individual variations occur in antibody responses to the dengue virus. Secondary
infections are associated with elevated risks of severe disease outcomes. Primary and
secondary infections are distinguishable based on their antibody responses. The ability of
all DENV serotypes to utilize pre-existing heterotypic flavivirus antibody to enhance
infection is a unique feature of DENV which distinguishes it from all other flaviviruses and is
considered to be the primary basis of DENV pathogenesis. All four serotypes are reported
from India.

The dengue virus genome is composed of three structural protein genes encoding the
nucleocapsid of core protein , a membrane associated protein (M), an envelope protein
(E) and seven non-structural (NS) proteins NS1, NS2A, NS2B, NS3, NS4A, NS4B and
NS5. The functions for all the individual NS-proteins are not well characterized. However,
NS1 protein has been shown to interact with the host immune system, and known to evoke T
cell responses. In dengue virus infection, patients have measurable levels of NS1 protein in
the blood, which are utilized as a diagnostic marker of the infection.

Dengue viral infection is mostly asymptomatic. The exact causes of severity among some
patients when there is interaction between agent and host are still not clearly understood.
Infected people play a major role in introducing the dengue virus by their movement to
newer areas.

2.3 Vector
Dengue viruses are transmitted from an infected person to others by the bite of the female
Aedes (Ae.) mosquito. In India, Ae. aegypti is the main vector in most urban areas; however,
Ae. albopictus is also incriminated in many states. Other species like Ae. polynesiensis and
Ae. niveus have also been incriminated as secondary vectors in some countries.

The female Aedes mosquito deposits eggs singly on damp surfaces just above the
waterline. Under optimal conditions, the adult emerges in seven days (after the aquatic
stages in the life cycle of Ae. aegypti). At low temperatures, it may take several weeks to
emerge. The eggs can withstand desiccation (can remain in a viable dry condition) for more
than a year and emerge within 24 hours once it comes in contact with water. This is also a
major hurdle in prevention and control of dengue.

Climatic conditions, particularly temperature and rainfall, have a major impact on the life cycle,
breeding and longevity of vectors and thus transmission of the disease. The average survival
of Ae. aegypti is 30 days and Ae. albopictus is about eight weeks. During the rainy season,
when survival is longer, the risk of virus transmission is greater. Aedes is a daytime feeder and
can fly up to a limited distance of 400 metres. In the absence of any vaccine or specific drug for
dengue, vector control is very significant in preventing disease transmission.

4
Ae. aegypti breeds almost entirely in domestic man-made water receptacles found in and
around households, water storage containers, water reservoirs, overhead tanks, desert
coolers, unused tyres, coconut shells, disposable cups, unused grinding stones, industrial
and domestic junk, construction sites, etc. Ae. albopictus prefers natural larval habitats
which include tree holes, latex collecting cups in rubber plantations, leaf axils, bamboo
stumps, coconut shells, etc. However, Ae. albopictus breeding has been reported recently
in domestic habitats as well.

2.4 Environmental factors

The population of Ae. aegypti fluctuates with rainfall and water storage. Its lifespan is
o o
influenced by temperature and humidity. It survives best between 16 C and 30 C and a
relative humidity of 6080%. Altitude is also a limiting factor for the distribution and is
restricted to between sea level and 1000 ft above sea level. Ae. aegypti is highly
anthropophilic and rests in cool shady places. The rural spread of Ae. aegypti is a relatively
recent occurrence associated with the societal and lifestyle changes in rural areas coupled
with developmental activities, improved transport systems, etc. Ae. albopictus has posed a
serious threat of dengue transmission in certain geographical regions endowed with a
sylvatic environment, particularly in peninsular and northeastern states.

2.5 Host factor

The dengue virus infects humans and several species of lower primates. People of all ages
and both genders are at risk. Secondary dengue infection is a risk factor for DHF, including
passively acquired antibodies in infants. Travel to dengue endemic areas is a most
important risk factor. However, if the patient develops fever more than two weeks after
travel, it is unlikely to be dengue infection. Migration of a patient during viremia to a non-
endemic area may introduce dengue into that area. The geographical spread of dengue has
been reported to occur mainly by people travelling from endemic areas to non-endemic
areas.

2.6 Transmission cycle

The female Ae. aegypti usually becomes infected with the dengue virus when it takes a
blood meal from a person during the acute febrile (viremia) phase of dengue illness. After
an extrinsic incubation period of 8 to 10 days, the mosquito becomes infected. The virus is
transmitted when the infected female mosquito bites and injects its saliva into the wound of
the person bitten. The cycle of dengue continues by this process. Dengue begins abruptly
after an intrinsic incubation period of 4 to 7 days (range 314 days). There is also evidence
of vertical transmission of dengue virus from infected female mosquitoes to the next
generation.

Though transmission primarily occurs through the bite of a vector, there are reports of
10
dengue transmission through blood transfusion and organ transplantation. There are also
reports of congenital dengue infections occurring in neonates born to mothers infected very
late in pregnancy.

5
 CHAPTER 3

CLINICAL MANIFESTATION OF DF/DHF

3.1 Immuno-pathogenesis
Host immune responses play an important role in the pathogenesis of Dengue Fever (DF).
The exact pathogenetic mechanism for different clinical manifestations of dengue fever is
still not clearly understood. Various mechanisms are proposed to explain signs and
symptoms such as complex immune mechanism, T-cell mediated antibodies cross
reactivity with vascular endothelium, enhancing antibodies, complement and its products
and various soluble mediators including cytokines and chemokines. The most favoured are
virus strains enhancing antibodies and memory T-cells in a secondary infection resulting in
Cytokine Tsunami. Whatever the mechanisms are, these ultimately target vascular
endothelium, platelets and various organs leading to vasculopathy and coagulopathy
responsible for the development of haemorrhage and shock. (Figure 4)

3.1.1 Capillary leakage and shock

More commonly, hypotension is caused by plasma leakage which may be mild and
transient or progress to profound shock with undetectable pulse and blood pressure. A
transient disturbance in the function of the endothelial glycocalyx layer may be involved
during dengue infection and alter temporarily the characteristics of the fibre matrix of the
endothelium. Anti-NS1 antibody acts as autoantibodies that cross-react with platelets and
noninfected endothelial cells which trigger the intracellular signaling leading to disturbances
in capillary permeability. Plasma leakage is caused by diffuse increase in capillary
permeability and manifest as any combination of haemoconcentration, pleural effusion or
7,11 rd th
Ascites. It usually becomes evident on 3 to 7 day of illness and patients may be afebrile
during this time. It is likely that both dengue virus infected monocytes and activated specific
T lymphocytes are responsible for increased level of cytokines especially in DHF/DSS.

3.1.2 Coagulopathy in dengue

Coagulopathy associated with dengue Fever is well observed but unfortunately underlying
mechanisms still remain unclear. An increase in activated Partial Thromboplastin Time
(aPTT) and reduction in fibrinogen concentrations are fairly consistent findings.
Thrombocytopenia associated with coagulopathy increases the severity of haemorrhage.
Release of heparin sulphate or chondroitin sulphate (molecules similar in structure to
heparin that can mimic in function as an anticoagulant) from the glycocalyx also contribute
to coagulopathy.

6
3.1.3 Causes of Bleeding in DF/DHF

Abnormal coagulogram Decrease fibrinogen level

Thrombocytopenia Increase level of fibrinogen degradation
Platelet dysfunction product (FDP)
Prothombin complex deficiency Increase level of D-Dimer
secondary to Liver involvement Consumptive coagulopathy (activation of
Endothelial injury mononuclear phagocytes)

DIC and Prolong aPTT Sequestration of platelets

3.1.4 Causes of Thrombocytopenia:

Destruction of platelet (antiplatelet antibodies)
DIC
Bone marrow suppression in early stage
Peripheral sequestration of Platelets

Dengue virus infection

Production of
antibodies/presence of Activation of T -Cells
enhancing antibodies

Antigen antibody Production of various

reaction with chemical mediators
complement activation

Deposition on vessels, Increased vascular

various tissues and permeability (DHF)
platelets

Clinical manifestations - Hypotension/shock Clinical manifestations of

of coagulopathy - Pleural effusion Vasculopathy
(bleeding) - Ascites (Capillary leakage)
- Bleeding
- Organ involvement

Fig. 4. Patho-physiology of DF/DHF

3.2 Clinical manifestations of DF/ DHF

Dengue viral infected person may be asymptomatic or symptomatic and clinical
manifestations vary from undifferentiated fever to florid haemorrhage and shock.11,12,13,14 The
clinical presentations depend on various factors such as age, immune status of the host, the
virus strain and primary or secondary infection. Infection with one dengue serotype gives
lifelong immunity to that particular serotype.

7
3.2.1 Undifferentiated dengue Fever (UDF)
In primary dengue infection patient may develop mild to moderate fever and it is often
difficult to distinguish from other viral infections. Maculopapular rash may or may not appear
during fever or defervescence. The symptoms of DF may not be very distinguished and
signs of bleeding or capillary leakage may be absent.

Figure 5: Dengue patient with Figure 6 : Impression mark on skin

Maculopapular rash of a dengue patient
3.2.2 Severe dengue Fever
Majority of the dengue virus infected persons are asymptomatic but symptomatic patients
may present with undifferentiated fever, non-severe and severe manifestation. Some
patients with dengue virus infection present with severe manifestations like shock, plasma
leakage, bleeding and organ involvement. Based on thrombocyte count, haematocrit,
evidence of capillary leakage, bleeding and hypotension. DHF has been divided into four
grades.15(Refer 3.8) Non severe cases may be DF and DHF grade I and II without significant
bleeding. Severe dengue may be DHF III and IV with or without significant bleeding. DHF
grade I and II may be severe when they present with significant bleeding or with metabolic
and electrolyte abnormalities. Sometimes DF may present with life threatening significant
bleeding without evidence of capillary leakage or haemoconcentration. Some dengue
Fever patients may also present with multiple organ involvement without bleeding and
shock. In some patient there may be unusual atypical presentation also.

It is also reported in various literatures that high morbidity and mortality in DF/DHF is due to
involvement of the following organs during illness:
Hepatic
Renal
Cardiac
Pulmonary
CNS

3.2.3 Dengue Fever with warning signs and symptoms:

The following signs and symptoms are useful as indicators of disease progression and
severity of DF/DHF/DSS:

Recurrent vomiting
Pleural effusion/ ascites/ gall bladder oedema on imaging

8
 Minor bleeding from different sites, scanty haemoptysis, haematemesis,
haematuria, increase menstrual flow, gum bleeding, etc.
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Palpitation, breathlessness
Hepatic dysfunction or hepatomegaly
Decrease urinary output
High HCT (>45%)
Rapid fall in platelet count
Cold clammy extremities
Narrow pulse pressure
Rapid pulse
Hypotension

3.2.4 High Risk group

The following high risk groups may have severe manifestations or complications with
DF/DHF, therefore this group of patients should be closely monitored for the development of
severity:

Pregnancy
Infant
Elderly
Obesity
Peptic ulcer diseases
G6PD deficiency
Thalassemia
Coronary Artery Disease
Chronic diseases: diabetes, COPD, bronchial asthma, hypertension
Patients on steroid, antiplatelet, anticoagulant drugs
HIV infected persons/ Immuno-compromised persons

3.2.5 Expanded dengue Syndrome (EDS)

Mild or Severe organ involvement may be found in DF/DHF. Unusual manifestations of
DF/DHF are commonly associated with co-morbidities and with various other co-infections.
Clinical manifestations observed in EDS are as follows:

System Unusual or atypical manifestations

CNS involvement Encephalopathy, encephalitis, febrile seizures, I/C bleed
G. I. involvement Acute Hepatitis / fulminant hepatic failure, cholecystitis, cholangitis
acute pancreatitis
Renal involvement Acute renal failure, haemolytic uremic syndrome, acute tubular necrosis
Cardiac involvement Cardiac arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, pericardial effusion
Respiratory Pulmonary oedema, ARDS, pulmonary haemorrhage. pleural effusion
Eye Conjunctival bleed, macular haemorrhage, visual impairment, optic
16,17
neuritis

9
3.2.6 Dengue infection in paediatric age groups:
Dengue infection occurs in all age groups of human population and paediatric age group
was found to have mostly affected. Paediatric age groups are also at high risk for morbidity
and mortality. In the recent past it has been observed that there is a paradigm shift of high
incidence of dengue infection from paediatric age group to adolescent and adult.

3.2.6.1 Vertical transmission and neonatal dengue infection:

Vertical dengue infection transmission from pregnant women to their foetus has been
reported in different studies from 1.6 -64%.13 Effect of dengue infection on pregnant women,
foetus and new born should be carefully examined to access capillary leakage and bleeding
tendency. Clinical manifestations of vertically infected neonates vary from mild illness such
as fever with petechial rash, thrombocytopenia and hepatomegaly, to severe illness with
pleural effusion, gastric bleeding, circulatory failure, massive intracerebral haemorrhage.
Clinical presentation in the newborn infant does not appear to be associated with maternal
disease severity or dengue immune status or mode of delivery. However, timing of maternal
infection may be important; peripartum maternal infection may increase the likelihood of
symptomatic disease in the newborn. Passive transfer of maternal dengue antibodies to the
foetus influences the occurrence of a severe development of the disease. Antibodies to the
dengue virus in the dengue infected mother can cross the placenta and can cause severe
dengue in newborn infants. Initial presentation may be confused with bacterial sepsis, birth
trauma and other neonatal illnesses.

3.2.6.2 Dengue in infants:

Dengue virus can cause a spectrum of outcomes in infants, ranging from asymptomatic
infection to mild or clinically significant severe disease similar to older children and adults.
The burden of severe dengue lies predominantly in infants 49 months of age.13

Manifestations of dengue in infants:

As in older children, infants with dengue typically have high fever that usually lasts 27 days.
Compared to older children upper respiratory tract symptoms (cough, nasal congestion,
runny nose, dyspnoea), gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, diarrhoea), and febrile
convulsions are more common in infants with dengue. It is often not possible to differentiate
between dengue and other common infections in infants such as pneumonia,
meningoencephalitis, measles, rotavirus infections, etc. at the febrile stage. Around the
time of defervescence (which usually falls on days 36 of illness), an increase in capillary
permeability, in parallel with increasing haematocrit levels become apparent in the majority
of dengue infants. The period of clinical plasma leakage lasts 2448 hours. Clinical features
and laboratory findings of infant infected with dengue become more prominent during this
critical phase. Skin bleeding such as petechiae, mucosal membrane bleeding (e.g. of the
nose and gums), and gastrointestinal bleeding may occur. Hepatomegaly is usually noted
and Splenomegaly is seen in almost 10% of dengue infants. Shock occurs when a
significant amount of volume of plasma is lost through leakage. The body temperature may
be subnormal when shock occurs. However, a differential diagnosis of septic shock should
be kept in mind in infants who have fever at the onset of shock. The degree of increase
above the baseline haematocrit often reflects the severity of plasma leakage. However, rise
of haematocrit may not be sometimes detectable because the normal value of haematocrit
in infants 2-12 months of age is relatively low and may be even lower in iron deficiency

10
anaemia. Thrombocytopenia and leukopenia are often observed in this phase. Liver
involvement is found more frequently in infants compared to children. Progression of infants
with dengue is the same as that of children and adults during the recovery phase.

3.3 Clinical Criteria for DF / DHF/DSS

Clinical Features of DF:

An acute febrile illness of 2-7 days duration with two or more of the following manifestations:
Headache, retro-orbital pain, myalgia, arthralgia, rash, haemorrhagic manifestations.

Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF):

a). A case with clinical criteria of dengue Fever
plus
b). Haemorrhagic tendencies evidenced by one or more of the following
1. Positive tourniquet test
2. Petechiae, ecchymoses or purpura
3. Bleeding from mucosa, gastrointestinal tract, injection sites or other sites
Plus
c). Thrombocytopenia (<100 000 cells per cumm)
plus
d). Evidence of plasma leakage due to increased vascular permeability, manifested by one or

more of the following:

1. A rise in average haematocrit for age and sex _
> 20%
2. A more than 20% drop in haematocrit following volume replacement treatment compared
to baseline
3. Signs of plasma leakage (pleural effusion, ascites, hypoproteinemia)

Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS):

All the above criteria for DHF with evidence of circulatory failure manifested by rapid and weak
pulse and narrow pulse pressure (<_ 20% mm Hg) or hypotension for age, cold and clammy skin
and restlessness.

Tourniquet test: The tourniquet test is performed by inflating a blood pressure cuff to a
midpoint between the systolic and diastolic pressure and maintain for five minutes. The test
is considered positive when 10 or more petechiae per one square inch area over forearm
are observed.18 In DHF, the test usually gives a definite positive test with 20 petechiae or
more. The test may be negative or only mildly positive during the phase of profound shock
(DSS).

11
3.4 Case Definition

Probable DF/DHF:
A case compatible with clinical description (Clinical Criteria at 3.3) of dengue Fever during
outbreak.:
OR
Non-ELISA based NS1 antigen/ IgM positive.

(A positive test by RDT will be considered as probable due to poor sensitivity and Specificity of
currently available RDTs.)

Conifrmed dengue Fever:

A case compatible with the clinical description of dengue fever with at least one of the following

Isolation of the dengue virus (Virus culture +VE) from serum, plasma, leucocytes.
Demonstration of IgM antibody titre by ELISA positive in single serum sample.
Demonstration of dengue virus antigen in serum sample by NS1-ELISA.
IgG seroconversion in paired sera after 2 weeks with Four fold increase of IgG titre.
Detection of viral nucleic acid by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

3.5 Natural course of dengue Infection

The clinical course of illness passes through the following three phases:
Febrile phase
Critical phase
Convalescent phase

3.5.1 Febrile phase

The onset of dengue fever is usually with sudden rise in temperature which may be biphasic,
lasting 2-7 days and commonly associated with headache, flushing and rash. There may be
pain in retro-orbital area, muscles, joint or bone. Rash may be maculopapular or rubelliform
and usually appear after 3rd or 4th day of fever and commonly seen in face, neck and other
part of the body which generally fades away in the later part of the febrile phase. Localized
cluster of petechiae may appear over upper and lower limbs. Dengue Fever with unusual
haemorrhagic manifestation may be seen rarely in case with co-morbid illness.

3.5.2 Critical phase (Leakage phase)

DF/DHF patients usually go to critical phase after 3 to 4 days of onset of fever. During this
critical phase plasma leakage and high haemoconcentration are documented and patients
may develop hypotension. Abnormal haemostasis and leakage of plasma leads to shock,
bleeding, accumulation of fluid in pleural and abdominal cavity. High morbidity and mortality
in DHF/DSS are commonly associated with various organ involvements and metabolic
derangement. The period of plasma leakage usually persists for 36-48 hrs.

3.5.3 Convalescent phase (recovery phase)

During the recovery phase the extracellular fluid which was lost due to capillary leakage
returns to the circulatory system and signs and symptoms improve. This phase usually after
6-7 days of fever and last for 2-3 days. Longer convalescence may be expected in some of
the patients with severe shock, organ involvement and other complications which may
require specific treatment. Patient may develop pulmonary oedema due to fluid overload if
the fluid replacement is not optimized carefully.

12
3.6 Differential Diagnosis of DF/DHF
Malaria
Enteric fever
Pharyngitis
Tonsillitis
Influenza
Leptospirosis
Meningococcal infection
Chikungunya fever
Epidemic typhus/ scrub typhus
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
Ebola haemorrhagic fever

3.7 Dengue Case classification

Dengue viral infection

symptomatic Asymptomatic

Mild Moderate Severe

dengue dengue dengue

DF with high risk & co- DF with warning signs

morbid conditions and symptoms

A. Undifferentiated Infants A. DF with warning A. DF/DHF with

DF signs and symptoms significant
Old age
Recurrent vomiting Haemorrhage
Diabetes
B. Fever without Abdominal pain/
complication like Hypertension tenderness B. DHF with shock (DHF
bleeding, Pregnancy General weakness/ III & IV- DSS)
hypotension and CAD letharginess/ restless
organ
involvement Haemoglobinopathies Mild pleural effusion/ C. Severe organ
Immunocompromized ascites involvement
patient Hepatomegaly (Expanded Dengue
C. Without evidence Syndrome)
of capillary Patient on steroids, Increased Hct>20%
leakage anticoagulants or
immunosuppressants. D. Severe Metabolic
B. DHF I & II with minor Disorder
bleeds

Home Management Close Monitoring* and possibly Hospitalization Tertiary level care

*Close monitoring: Hct, Plt, Hb, fluid intake/output, HR, RR, BP, Consciousness

13
3.8 Grading of DF/DHF

*DF: Fever of 2-7 days with two or more of following- Headache, Retro orbital pain, Myalgia,
Arthralgia with or without leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and no evidence of plasma leakage.
DHFI: Above criteria plus positive tourniquet test and evidence of plasma leakage.
Thrombocytopenia with platelet count less than 100000/ cu.mm and Hct rise more than 20% over
baseline.

DHFII: Above plus some evidence of spontaneous bleeding in skin or other organs (black tarry
stool, epistaxis, gum bleeds) and abdominal pain. Thrombocytopenia with platelet count less
than 100000/ cu.mm and Hct rise more than 20% over baseline.

DHFIII (DSS): Above plus circulatory failure (weak rapid pulse, narrow pulse pressure < 20 mm
Hg, Hypotension, cold clammy skin, restlessness). Thrombocytopenia with platelet count less
than 100000/ cu.mm and Hct rise more than 20% over baseline.

DHFIV (DSS): Profound shock with undetectable blood pressure or pulse. Thrombocytopenia
with platelet count less than 100000/ cu.mm and Hct rise more than 20% over baseline.

14
 CHAPTER 4

LABORATORY DIAGNOSIS
In endemic areas, early symptoms of dengue fever mimic many other prevalent diseases
such as chikungunya, malaria, viral infection, urinary tract infection, typhoid, leptospirosis,
etc. For proper management exclusion of these conditions is hence very crucial.

4.1 Laboratory diagnosis tests

Laboratory diagnosis can be carried out by one or more of the following tests.

4.1.1 ELISA-based NS1 antigen tests

Dengue NS1 antigen, a highly conserved glycoprotein which is produced in both
membrane-associated and secretion forms, is abundant in the serum of patients during the
early stages of DENV infection. It has been found to be useful as a tool for the diagnosis of
acute dengue infections. It is a simple test that is more specific and shows high sensitivity.

NS1 enables detection of the cases early, i.e. in the viremic stage, which has
epidemiological significance for containing the transmission.The NS1 ELISA-based
antigen assay is commercially available for DENV and many investigators have evaluated
this assay for sensitivity and specificity. The NS1 assay may also be useful for differential
diagnostics between flaviviruses because of the specificity of the assay.

4.1.2 IgM-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (MAC-ELISA)

MAC-ELISA has been widely used in the past few years. It is a simple test that requires very
little sophisticated equipment. MAC-ELISA is based on detecting the dengue-specific IgM
antibodies in the test serum by capturing them using anti-human IgM that was previously
bound to the solid phase. This is followed by addition of dengue antigen if the IgM antibody
from the patient's serum is anti-dengue, it will bind to the dengue antigen. An enzyme-
substrate is added to give a colour reaction for easy detection.

The anti-dengue IgM antibody develops a little faster than IgG and is usually detectable by
day 5 of the illness. However, the rapidity with which IgM develops varies considerably
among patients. Some patients have detectable IgM on days 2 to 4 after the onset of illness,
while others may not develop IgM for seven to eight days after the onset. In some primary
infections, detectable IgM may persist for more than 90 days, but in most patients it wanes to
an undetectable level by 60 days. It is reasonably certain, however, that the person had a
dengue infection sometime in the past two to three months. MAC-ELISA has become an
invaluable tool for surveillance of DF/DHF. In areas where dengue is not endemic, it can be
used in clinical surveillance for viral illness or for random, population-based serosurveys,
with the certainty that any positives detected are recent infections. It is especially useful for
hospitalized patients, who are generally admitted late in the illness after detectable IgM is
already present in the blood.

15
4.1.3 Isolation of dengue virus
Isolation of most strains of dengue virus from clinical specimens can be accomplished in the
majority of cases, provided that the sample is taken in the first five days of illness and
processed without delay. Specimens that may be suitable for virus isolation include acute
phase serum, plasma or washed buffy coat from the patient, autopsy tissues from fatal
cases, especially liver, spleen, lymph nodes and thymus and mosquitoes collected in
nature. Isolation of the virus takes 710 days, hence it may not be very useful for starting the
management of patients with DF/DHF.

4.1.4 Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

Molecular diagnosis based on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR),
such as one-step or nested RT-PCR, nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA)
or real-time RT-PCR has gradually replaced the virus isolation method as the new standard
for the detection of dengue virus in acute-phase serum samples.

4.1.5 IgG-ELISA
An IgG-ELISA has been developed that compares well to the hemagglutination-inhibition
(HI) test. This test can also be used to differentiate primary and secondary dengue
infections. The test is simple and easy to perform but not considered as a diagnostic test as
it indicates past infections only.

4.1.6 Serological tests

Besides MAC-ELISA and IgG-ELISA, there are a few serological tests available for the
diagnosis of dengue infection such as HI, complement fixation (CF) and neutralization test
(NT). These are not commonly used due to various technical problems.

4.1.7 RDTs
A number of commercial RDT kits for anti-dengue IgM/IgG antibodies and NS1 antigen are
commercially available, which give the results within 15 to 25 minutes. However, the
accuracy of most of these tests is not known since they have not yet been properly
validated. Some of the RDTs have been independently evaluated. The results showed a
high rate of false positives compared to standard tests, while some others have agreed
closely with standard tests. The sensitivity and specificity of some RDTs are also found to
vary from batch to batch. According to WHO guidelines, these kits should not be used in
clinical settings to guide management of DF/DHF cases because many serum samples
taken in the first five days after the onset of illness will not have detectable IgM antibodies.
The tests would thus give a false negative result. Reliance on such tests to guide clinical
management could, therefore, result in an increase in the casefatality ratio. Hence, use of
RDT is not recommended under the programme.

4.2 Collection of samples

Laboratory diagnosis of dengue depends on proper collection, processing, storage and
shipment of the specimens. While collecting blood for serological studies from suspected
DF/DHF cases, all universal precautions should taken.
While sending the samples for lab confirmation, the day of onset of fever and day of sample
collection should be mentioned to guide the laboratory for the type of test to be performed
(NS1 for samples collected from day 1 to day 5 and IgM after day 5).

16
4.3 NVBDCP-recommended tests for laboratory diagnosis
For confirmation of dengue infection, Government of India (GoI) recommends use of
ELISA-based antigen detection test (NS1) for diagnosing the cases from the first
day onwards and antibody detection test IgM capture ELISA (MAC-ELISA) for
diagnosing the cases after the fifth day of onset of disease.19
Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP), GoI
has identified a network of laboratories (sentinel surveillance hospitals and apex
referral laboratories) for surveillance of dengue fever cases across the country
since 2007. These laboratories are also meant to augment the diagnostic facilities in
all endemic areas. They are linked with Apex Referral Laboratories (ARLs) with
advanced diagnostic facilities for backup support and serotyping of dengue
samples. For details, please refer to NVBDCP website www.nvbdcp.gov.in.
These laboratories receive the samples, diagnose and send the report (line list)
regularly to districts/municipal health authorities for implementation of preventive
measures to interrupt the transmission.
NS1 antigen tests GoI introduced ELISA-based NS1 antigen test in 2010 in
addition to MAC-ELISA tests which can detect the case during day 1 to day 5 of
illness.

4.4 Supply of kits

IgM ELISA test kits (1 kit = 96 tests) are being provided to the identified laboratories
through the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune since 2007. The cost is borne
by GoI. Buffer stock is also maintained at NIV, Pune.
For procurement of dengue NS1 antigen test kits, fund has been provided to the
states. States are suppose to procure it as per GoI guidelines and provide the same
to sentinel surveillance hospitals (SSHs) every year as per their technical
requirement.

17
 CHAPTER 5

CLINICAL MANAGEMENT
5.1 Management
Approach to clinical management of dengue Fever may vary depending on severity of
illness. The patients who have simple fever without any danger signs or complications may
be managed with symptomatic approach. Those who have warning signs and symptoms
should be closely monitored for progression of disease. The patients with grade III and IV of
DHF, significant bleeding or involvement of various organs require aggressive
management to reduce morbidity and mortality. Patient may develop complications during
later stage of fever (defervescence) or afebrile phase, where clinician should be careful to
look for danger signs and signs of fluid overload.

5.1.1 Management of dengue Fever (DF)

Management of dengue fever is symptomatic and supportive

ii. Bed rest is advisable during the acute phase.

iii. Use cold/tepid sponging to keep temperature below 38.50 C.
iiii. Antipyretics may be used to lower the body temperature. Aspirin/NSAIDS like
Ibuprofen, etc should be avoided since it may cause gastritis, vomiting, acidosis,
platelet dysfunction and severe bleeding. Paracetamol is preferable in the doses
given below:

1-2 years: 60 -120 mg/dose

3-6 years: 120 mg/dose
7-12 years: 240 mg/dose
Adult : 500 mg/dose

Note: In children the dose of paracetamol is calculated as per 10 mg/Kg body weight per
dose. Paracetamol dose can be repeated at the intervals of 6 hrs depending upon fever and
body ache.

iv. Oral fluid and electrolyte therapy is recommended for patients with excessive
sweating or vomiting.
v. Patients should be monitored for 24 to 48 hours after they become afebrile for
development of complications.

5.1.2 Management during Febrile Phase

o
Paracetamol is recommended to keep the temperature below 39 C. Adequate fluid should
be advised orally to the extent the patient tolerates. Oral rehydration solution (ORS), such
as those used for the treatment of diarrhoeal diseases and / or fruit juices are preferable to
plain water. Intravenous fluid should be administered if the patient is vomiting persistently or

18
refusing to feed.
Patients should be closely monitored for the initial signs of shock. The critical period is
during the transition from the febrile to the afebrile stage and usually occurs after the third
day of illness. Sometimes serial haematocrit determinations are essential to guide
treatment plan, since they reflect the degree of plasma leakage and need for intravenous
administration of fluids. Haematocrit should be determined daily specially from the third day
until the temperature remains normal for one or two days.

5.1.3 Management of DHF Grade I and II

Any person who has dengue fever with thrombocytopenia, high haemoconcentration and
presents with abdominal pain, black tarry stools, epistaxis, bleeding from the gums etc.
needs to be hospitalized. All these patients should be observed for signs of shock. The
critical period for development of shock is during transition from febrile to abferile phase of
illness, which usually occurs after third day of illness. Rise of haemoconcentration indicates
plasma leakage and loss of volume for which proper fluid management plays an important
role. Despite the treatment, if the patient develops fall in BP, decrease in urine output or
other features of shock, the management for Grade III/IV DHF/DSS should be instituted.

Oral rehydration should be given along with antipyretics like Paracetamol, sponging, etc. as
described above. The algorithm for fluid replacement therapy in case of DHF Grade I and II
is given in Chart 1.

5.1.4 Management of Shock (DHF Grade III / IV)

Immediately after hospitalization, the haematocrit, platelet count and vital signs should be
examined to assess the patient's condition and intravenous fluid therapy should be started.
The patient requires regular and continuous monitoring. If the patient has already received
about 1000 ml of intravenous fluid, it should be changed to colloidal solution preferably
Dextran40 or if haematocrit further decreases fresh whole blood transfusion 10-
20ml/kg/dose should be given.

However, in case of persistent shock even after initial fluid replacement and resuscitation
with plasma or plasma expanders, the haematocrit continues to decline, internal bleeding
should be suspected. It may be difficult to recognize and estimate the degree of internal
blood loss in the presence of haemoconcentration. It is thus recommended to give whole
blood in small volumes of 10ml/kg/hour for all patients in shock as a routine precaution.
Oxygen should be given to all patients in shock. Treatment algorithm for patients with DHF
Grades III and IV is given in Chart 2 and 3.

5.2 Management of severe bleeding

In case of severe bleeding, patient should be admitted in the hospital and investigated to
look for the cause and site of bleeding and immediately attempt should be made to stop the
bleeding. Internal bleeding like GI bleeding may be sometime severe and difficult to locate.
Patients may also have severe epistaxis and haemoptysis and may present with profound
shock. Urgent blood transfusion is life saving in this condition. However, if blood is not
available shock may be managed with proper IV fluid or plasma expander.. If the patient has
thrombocytopenia with active bleeding, it should be treated with blood transfusion and then
if required platelet transfusion. In case of massive haemorrhage blood should be tested to

19
rule out coagulopathy by testing for prothrombin time (PT) and aPTT. Patients of severe
bleeding may have liver dysfunction and in such case, liver function test should also be
performed. In rare circumstances, intracranial bleed may also occur in some patients who
have severe thrombocytopenia and abnormality in coagulation profile.

5.3 Management of DF/ DHF with co-morbid illness

Different co-morbid illness like hypertension, diabetes, thyroid diseases, hepatitis, heart
diseases and renal diseases may contribute in the development of severe manifestations in
DF/DHF.

5.3.1 Dengue viral hepatitis: Some patient may have impairment of liver function test
due to dengue viral infection. In some DF patients the AST/ALT level may be very high and
PT may be prolonged. Hepatic involvement is commonly associated with pre-existing
conditions like chronic viral hepatitis, cirrhosis of liver and haepatomegaly due to some
other cause. Patient may also develop hepatic encephalopathy due to acute liver failure.
Liver involvement also sometimes associates with DF in pregnancy. Low albumin due to
chronic liver disease may be associated with severe DHF and bleeding. GI bleeding is
common in this condition and patient may go to severe DSS. These patients should be
managed carefully with hepatic failure regimen with appropriate fluid and blood transfusion.
If PT is prolonged intravenous vitamin K1 may be initiated in such conditions.

20
5.3.2 Dengue myocarditis: Dengue infection may rarely cause acute myocarditis which
also may contribute for the development of DSS. Cardiac complications may be seen in
presence of CAD, hypertension, diabetic and valvular heart disease. Management of shock
with IV fluid in such case is sometime difficult due to myocardial dysfunction. Patient may
develop pulmonary oedema due to improper fluid management. Some CAD patient may be
already taking Aspirin and other anti-platelet agent which may also contribute for severe
bleeding unless these are stopped during dengue infection. Cardiac ischemia or electrolyte
disturbances should be frequently reassessed. Patient may develop congestive or
biventricular failure therefore should be treated properly for better morbidity and mortality
outcome.

5.3.3 DF in Diabetes: Sometimes diabetic patients may present with severe complication
in DF when target organs are involved like diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy,
vasculopathy, cardiomyopathy and hypertension. Due to dengue infection in diabetes the
blood sugar may become uncontrolled which may require sometimes insulin therapy for
better management.

5.3.4 Renal involvement in DF: Acute Tubular Necrosis (ATN) may develop during DSS
and may complicate to acute kidney injury (AKI) if fluid therapy is not initiated in time. Renal
function may be reversible, if shock is corrected within a short span of time. If the shock
persists for long time patient may develop renal complications. Urine output monitoring in
dengue infection is very important to assess renal involvement. Microscopic-macroscopic
Haematuria should be examined in DHF patients. Other investigations like blood urea,
creatinine, electrolytes, GFR, ABG should be performed in patients with severe dengue/
DHF. Fluid intake should be closely monitored in case of AKI to avoid fluid overload and
pulmonary oedema. Dengue patient may develop severe DHF in presence of diabetic
nephropathy, hypertensive nephropathy, connective tissue disorders (SLE) and other pre-

20
existing chronic diseases.
5.3.5 CNS involvement in DF: Altered sensorium may develop in dengue patient due to
various conditions like shock (DSS), electrolyte imbalance (due to persistent vomiting), fluid
overload (dilutional hyponatremia or other electrolyte imbalance), hypoglycemia, hepatic
enchalopathy and also due to involvement of CNS by dengue virus. Acute encephalopathy
or encephalitis may be seen in some patients with severe dengue. Sometimes it may be
difficult to clinically exclude cerebral Malaria and enteric encephalopathy which may also
appear during same period (epidemic). Dengue serology (IgM) in CSF may help to confirm
dengue encephalopathy or encephalitis.

5.4 Management of DF with co-infections

It is sometimes difficult to manage DF with co-infections like HIV, TB, malaria, chikungunya,
enteric fever and leptospira as mostly clinical presentations are severe in presence of these
co-infections.

5.4.1 TB: Patients may develop breathlessness and massive haemoptysis in Pulmonary
Tuberculosis. These patients may also develop moderate to massive pleural effusion and
ARDS. If patient has DF in presence of TB and is on ATT, then should be closely monitored
for further development of respiratory/pulmonary complications to prevent morbidity and
mortality.

5.4.2 HIV: Dengue patients may have severe complications like DHF, DSS, significant
bleeding and organ involvement among HIV and AIDS patients. Outcome of DF is poor
amongst severely immune compromised patients those who have opportunistic infection
and very low CD4 count. Multi-organ involvement may be common in DF and responsible
for high mortality. Management of DF with HIV and AIDS should be undertaken with HIV
specialist consultation.

5.4.3 Malaria: Malaria is also a common co-infection in dengue as it is prevalent across

India and transmission also coincides during the same period/season. Malaria should be
excluded in the beginning without loss of much time as it has its' specific management.
Antimalarial treatment should be started as soon as possible to prevent complication and
better outcome during co-infection.

5.4.4 Chikungunya: It is also reported that in some geographical area both the infections
are prevalent at the same time. Acute complications are sometimes severe in DF in
presence of Chikungunya. In case of predominant joint involvement in a DF patient,
Chikungunya should be investigated and proper management to be carried out accordingly.

5.4.5 Enteric Fever: Water borne diseases like Typhoid fever and gastroenteritis are also
common during monsoon season when dengue infection is also reported in large number.
In the initial phase DF patient may be more complicated with Typhoid if antibiotic treatment
is started late. In high suspected cases blood culture for Typhoid fever should be sent to
nd
confirm the diagnosis as Widal test may not be positive before 2 weeks of fever.

5.5 Management of dengue in pregnancy

DF infection in pregnancy carries the risk of more bleeding, foetal complications, low birth

21
 13
weight and premature birth . Risk of vertical transmission also increases during pregnancy.
Pleural effusion, ascites, hypotension are commonly associated with DF in pregnancy.
Involvement of lungs and liver is also common in pregnancy. Patients may have respiratory
symptom due to massive pleural effusion and high SGOT/SGPT due to liver involvement.
Complications of DF depend on the different stages of pregnancy like early, late, peri-
partum and postpartum period.

Pregnancy is a state of hyper dynamic circulation and fluid replacement should be carefully
done to prevent pulmonary oedema. Frequent platelet count and coagulation profile testing
should be performed during DF in pregnancy. Regular BP monitoring should be performed
during DF in pregnancy. Fulminant hepatic failure, ARDS and Acute Renal failure in
pregnancy may be associated with dengue infection.

Management of dengue infection in pregnancy should be taken seriously to reduce

morbidity and mortality in mother as well as foetus.

5.6 Management of neonatal dengue

After delivery, the newborn may go into shock which may be confused with septic shock or
birth trauma. In this case, history of febrile illness during pregnancy is important which may
help to diagnose Dengue Shock Syndrome among neonates and infants. Close
observation, symptomatic and supportive treatment are the mainstay of management.

5.7 Management of dengue in infants

5.7.1 Management of dengue among infants without warning signs
Oral rehydration should be encouraged with oral rehydration solution (ORS), fruit juice and
other fluids containing electrolytes and sugar, together with breastfeeding or formula
feeding. Parents or caregivers should be instructed about fever control with antipyretics and
tepid sponging. They should be advised to bring the infant back to the nearest hospital
immediately if the infant has any of the warning signs.

5.7.2 Management of dengue among infants with warning signs

When the infant has dengue with warning signs intravenous fluid therapy is indicated. In the
early stage, judicious volume replacement by intravenous fluid therapy may modify the
course and severity of the illness. Initially isotonic crystalloid solutions such as Ringer's
lactate (RL), Ringer's acetate (RA), or 0.9% saline solution should be used. The capillary
leak resolves spontaneously after 24-48 hours in most of the patients.

5.7.3 Management of infants with severe dengue: Treatment of shock

Volume replacement in infants with dengue shock is very challenging and it should be done
promptly during the period of defervescence. Each and every case should be critically
analyzed separately.

5.8 Criteria for admission of a patient

If a DF patient presents with significant bleeding from any site, signs of hypotension,
persistent high grade fever, rapid fall of platelet count, sudden drop in temperature should
be admitted in hospital. However, those patients who have evidence of organ involvement
should also be admitted for proper monitoring and management. Dengue patients with

22
warning signs and symptoms should be admitted and closely monitored.
5.9 Criteria for discharge of patients
The admitted patients who have recovered from acute dengue infection having no fever for
atleast 24 hours, normal blood pressure, adequate urine output, no respiratory distress,
persistent platelet count >50,000/cu.mm should be discharged from hospital.

5.10 Management of dengue Infection in outbreak situation

During outbreak situation dengue patient turn over may increase exceptionally. In endemic
areas all the hospitals should have a plan dealing with emergency hospitalization for making
the most effective use of hospital and treatment facilities in case of outbreak occurs. For
epidemic management of dengue cases following issues to be considered:

Space mobilization
Staff mobilization
Augmentation of Laboratory Services (Diagnosis not required in all cases in
outbreak situation)
Augmentation of blood bank services for blood and blood component
Ensure public health measure to prevent transmission to hospital staff and other
Patients by keeping Aedes mosquito (vector) free environment.

For Individual case management during outbreak situation following issues are crucial:

Diagnosis
Severity assessment
Specific management

23
 Chart 1. Volume replacement algorithm for patients with DHF grades I & II

Haemorrhagic (bleeding) tendencies, thrombocytopenia,

Hct rise 20%

Initiate IV therapy 6 ml/kg/h crystalloid solution for 12 h

Check Hct

Improvement* No improvement**

IV therapy by crystalloid Hct rises Hct falls

successively reducing
the flow from 6 ml/kg/h
for 24 h to 3 ml/kg/h for Increase IV 10 ml/kg/h crystalloid for 2 h
24 h and 31.5 ml/kg/h
for 24 h Suspect internal
haemorrhage

Further improvement
Blood transfusion
(10 ml/kg whole blood)/
(5 ml/kg packed RBC)
Discontinue IV after
2448 h
Improvement

IV therapy by crystalloid successively

reducing the flow from 10 to 6 and
later to 3 ml/lkg/h. Discontinue after 2448 h

Notes:
*Improvement: Hct falls, pulse rate and blood pressure stable, urine output rises
**No Improvement: Hct or pulse rate rises, pulse pressure falls below 20 mmHg, urine
output falls

24
 Chart 2. Volume replacement algorithm for patients with DHF grade III

Compensated shock
Pulse pressure 20 mmhg, hypotension (SBP
<90mmhg), high Hct (>20% rise from baseline)

Initiate IV therapy 1020 ml/kg/h crystalloid solution for 1 h

*Improvement in VS & Hct **No Improvement in VS

Check Hct

Hct rises or is >45% Hct falls

Start IV therapy by crystalloid Suspect bleeding

successively reducing the flow from IV colloid/crystalloid
10 ml/kg/h for 12 h to 6 ml/kg/h for 1020 ml/kg over 1h
24 h and 31.5 ml/kg/h for 24 h Blood transfusion
(10 ml/kg whole blood)/
(5ml/kg packed RBC)
No improvement
Further Improvement in VS
Refractory
hypotension ABCS#

Discontinue IV after 2448 h Improvement in VS No improvement in VS

IV Inotropes with crystalloid

maintenance fluid according
to HolidaySegar formula

Crystalloid: Normal Saline, ringer lactate

Colloid: Dextran 40/degraded gelatine polymer (polygeline)
# ABCS = Acidosis, Bleeding, Calcium (Na++ & K+), Sugar

Notes:
*Improvement: Hct falls, pulse rate and blood pressure stable, urine output rises
**No improvement: Hct or pulse rate rises, pulse pressure falls below 20 mmHg, urine
output falls
Unstable vital signs: urine output falls, signs of shock
In cases of acidosis, hyperosmolar or Ringer's lactate solution should not be used
Serial platelet and Hct determinations: drop in platelets and rise in Hct are essential
for early diagnosis of DHF
Cases of DHF should be observed every hour for vital signs and urine output

25
 Chart 3. Volume replacement algorithm for patients with DHF IV (DSS)

Profound shock
Signs of shock, hypotension (BP undetectable), high
Hct (>20% rise from baseline)

Oxygen

Immediate rapid volume replacement: give 1020 ml/kg

crystalloid solution as rapid bolus over 1530 min

*Improvement in VS & Hct **No improvement in VS

Repeat 1020 ml/kg crystalloid/colloid*

second bolus over 1530 mins

Check Hct

Improvement in Hct rises or

Hct falls
Hct & VS >45%

Suspect bleeding
Start IV therapy by crystalloid,
successively reducing the flow from
IV colloid/crystalloid Blood transfusion
10 to 6 ml/kg/h for 2h, 6 to 3 ml/kg/h
1020ml/kg over 1h (10 ml/kg whole blood)/
for 24 h and 31.5 ml/kg/h for 24 h
(5 ml/kg packed RBC)

Further improvement in VS No improvement Refractory hypotension

Discontinue IV after Improvement in VS Look for ABCS

2448 h

No improvement in VS

IV inotropes with
crystalloid maintenance
-Crystalloid: Normal Saline, ringer lactate fluid according to
-Colloid: Dextran 40/degraded gelatine polymer (polygeline) HolidaySegar formula

- ABCS = Acidosis, Bleeding, Calcium (Na++ & K+), Sugar

Notes:
*Improvement: Hct falls, pulse rate and blood pressure stable, urine output rises
**No Improvement: Hct or pulse rate rises, pulse pressure falls below 20 mmHg, urine
output falls
Unstable vital signs: Urine output falls, signs of shock
In cases of acidosis, hyperosmolar or Ringer's lactate solution should not be used
Serial platelet and Hct determinations: drop in platelets and rise in Hct are essential
for early diagnosis of DHF
Cases of DHF should be observed every hour for vital signs and urine output

26
5.11 Calculation of fluid
Required amount of fluid should be calculated on the basis of body weight and charted on a
1-3 hourly basis, or even more frequently in the case of shock. For obese and overweight
patients calculation of fluid should be done on the basis of ideal body weight. The regimen of
the flow of fluid and the time of infusion are dependent on the severity of DHF. The schedule
given below is recommended as a guideline. It is calculated for dehydration of about 5%
deficit (plus maintenance).

The maintenance fluid should be calculated using the Holiday and Segar formula as follows:

Body weight in kg Maintenance volume for 24 hours

<10 kg 100 ml / kg

10-20 1000+50 ml / kg body weight exceeding 10 kg

More than 20 kg 1500+20 ml / kg body weight exceeding 20 kg

For a child weighing 40 kgs, the maintenance is: 1500 + (20x20) = 1900 ml. Amount of fluid
to be given in 24 hrs is calculated by adding maintenance + 5% dehydration which is
equivalent to 50 ml/kg. This should be given in 24 hrs to maintain just adequate
intravascular volume and circulation. Therefore for a child weighing 40 kg the fluid required
will be 1900 + (40 x 50)=3900 ml in 24 hrs. For intravenous fluid therapy of patients with
DHF, four regimens of flow of fluid are suggested: 1.5/ml/kg/hr, 3ml/kg/hr; 6ml/kg/hr;
10ml/kg/hr, and 20ml/kg/hr. For ready reference, the calculated fluid requirements, based
on bodyweight and rate of flow of fluid volume for the Five regimens are given in Table 1.

Choice of intravenous fluids for resuscitation

There is no clear advantage to the use of colloids over crystalloids in terms of the overall
outcome. However, colloids may be the preferred choice if the blood pressure has to be
restored quickly. Colloids have been shown to restore the cardiac index and reduce the
level of haematocrit faster than crystalloids in patients with intractable shock and pulse
pressure less than 10 mm Hg.

Crystalloids
Normal plasma chloride ranges from 95 to 105 mmol/L 0.9% Saline is a suitable option
for initial fluid resuscitation, but repeated large volumes of 0.9% saline may lead to
hyperchloremic acidosis. Hyperchloraemic acidosis may aggravate or be confused with
lactic acidosis from prolonged shock. Monitoring the chloride and lactate levels will help
to identify this problem. When serum chloride level exceeds the normal range, it is
advisable to change to other alternatives such as Ringer's Lactate.

27
 Ringer's Lactate
Ringer's Lactate has lower sodium (131 mmol/L) and chloride (115 mmol/L) contents
and an osmolality of 273 mOsm/L. It may not be suitable for resuscitation of patients with
severe hyponatremia. However, it is a suitable solution after 0.9 Saline has been given
and the serum chloride level has exceeded the normal range. Ringer's Lactate should
probably be avoided in liver failure and in patients taking metformin where lactate
metabolism may be impaired.

Colloids
The types of colloids are gelatin-based, dextran-based and starch-based solutions. One
of the biggest concerns regarding their use is their impact on coagulation. Theoretically,
dextrans bind to von Willebrand factor/Factor VIII complex and impair coagulation the
most. However, this was not observed to have clinical significance in fluid resuscitation
in dengue shock. Of all the colloids, gelatine has the least effect on coagulation but the
highest risk of allergic reactions. Allergic reactions such as fever, chills and rigors have
also been observed in Dextran 70. Dextran 40 can potentially cause an osmotic renal
injury in hypovolaemic patients.

Table 1. Requirement of fluid based on bodyweight

Bodyweight Volume of fluid to be Rate of fluid (ml/hours)

(In kgs) given in 24 hrs
Regimen 1 Regimen 2 Regimen 3 Regimen 4 Regimen 5
Maintenance + 5%
1.5ml/kg 3ml/kg 6ml/kg 10ml/kg 20ml/kg
deficit

5 500+250=750 8 15 30 50 100

10 1000+500=1500 15 30 60 100 200

15 1250+750=2000 23 45 90 150 300

20 1500+1000=2500 30 60 120 200 400

25 1600+1250=2850 38 75 150 250 500

30 1700+1500=3200 45 90 180 300 600

35 1800+1750=3550 53 105 210 350 700

40 1900+2000=3900 60 120 240 400 800

45 2000+2250=4250 68 135 270 450 900

50 2100+2500=4600 75 150 300 500 1000

55 2200+2750=4950 83 165 330 550 1100

60 2300+3000=5300 90 180 360 600 1200

28
Note:
The fluid volumes mentioned are approximate.
The fluid replacement should be just sufficient to maintain effective circulation
during the period of plasma leakage.
The recommended intravenous fluids are Normal saline, Ringers Lactate or 5%
DNS.
One should keep a watch for Urine output, liver size and signs of pulmonary
oedema. Hypervolumea is a common complication.
Normally intravenous fluids are not required beyond 36 to 48 hrs.
Normally change should not be drastic. Do not jump from R-3 to R-5 since this can
overload the patient with fluid. Similarly, reduce the volume of fluid from R-5 to R-4,
from R-4 to R3, and from R-3 to R-1 in a stepwise manner.
Remember that ONE ML is equal to 15 DROPS. In case of micro drip system, one ml
is equal to 60 drops. (if needed adjust fluid speed in drops according to equipment
used).
It is advised to start with one bottle of 500 ml initially, and order more as and when
required. The decision about the speed of IV fluid should be reviewed every 1-3
hours. The frequency of monitoring should be determined on the basis of the
condition of the patient.

5.12 Indication of Platelet transfusion

1. Platelet count less than 10000/cu.mm in absence of bleeding manifestations
(Prophylactic platelet transfusion).
2. Haemorrhage with or without thrombocytopenia.

Packed cell transfusion/FFP along with platelets may be required in cases of severe
bleeding with coagulopathy. Whole fresh blood transfusion doesn't have any role in
managing thrombocytopenia.

Platelets can be classified as random donor platelets (prepared by buffy coat removal
method or by platelet rich plasma method), BCPP (buffy coat pooled platelet) and single
donor platelets (SDP) or aphaeretic platelets (AP).

The details of the different platelet products are given at Annexure II.

5.13 Vaccine for dengue infection

Till now there is no licensed vaccine available against dengue viral infection. Several trials
are ongoing in the world for the development of tetravalent dengue vaccine. So far phase III
trials of a recombinant, live attenuated tetravalent dengue vaccine (CYD-TDV) has
completed in Five Asian countries in children which may be promising in preventing dengue
infection in near future.21

29
 CHAPTER 6

MANAGEMENT AND REFERRAL OF DENGUE

CASES AT PRIMARY HEALTH-CARE LEVEL
Dengue was earlier known as an urban disease. However, due to manmade, environmental
and societal changes and improper water storage practices, the vector Ae. aegypti has also
invaded rural areas. Frequent movement of the population has also helped in introduction of
the virus in rural areas, leading to rural spread of the disease.

6.1 Diagnosis of dengue cases

In the primary health centre (PHC), the guidelines to be followed for diagnosis of dengue
cases are given at Figure 7.

Fig. 7. Guidelines for diagnosis of dengue cases

Acute febrile illness <7 days

Day of fever
Detailed history: fever, retro orbital pain, myalgia,
bleeding, poor oral intake, decrease in urine output
Look for warning signs and symptoms

Clinical examination Bedside tests & investigations

Pulse Tourniquet test
BP Capillary filling time
Tachycardia Complete blood count (CBC)
Tachypnea Hct
Pulse pressure (narrow <20 mmHg) Platelet count
Rash
Mucosal bleeding
Hepatomegaly
Clinical evidence of plural effusion If possible, send blood sample to
Ascites nearby SSH laboratory for
19
confirmation of dengue infection

Diagnosis*
1.Mild dengue
2.Moderate dengue
3.Severe dengue
DF with significant bleeding
DHF I & II with significant bleeding,DSS
Expanded dengue syndrome (EDS)
Severe metabolic disorder

* For details, refer Dengue case classification at 3.7.

Note: Inform the District VBD Officer for taking public health measures in the affected area/s to
prevent further spread of the disease.

30
6.2 Management and referral of dengue cases at PHC level
The guidelines to be followed in the PHC for management of dengue cases and for referral
of severe/complicated cases to the higher centre are given in Figure 8.

Fig. 8. Guidelines to be followed in the PHC for management of Dengue cases

Management of
DF/DHF*

Hb & Hct
Stable, orally accepting, Signs of circulatory failure
Hct normal Significant bleeding
Hb & Hct
BP & pulse pressure: normal
1020ml/kg crystalloid in
1530 mins bolus

Advice: plenty of oral fluid,

PCM SOS & warning signs and No improvement
symptoms explanation
In VS and Hct

1020 ml/kg/h crystalloid for

e nt

1h; Hct , bleeding++

6ml/kg/h for 12 h
vem

crystalloid repeat Hct

ro

No improvement
Imp

In VS and Hct

Persistent hypotention, oliguria,

altered sensorium,
active bleeding, rapidly falling Hct

Improvement No improvement
Home management/ Maintenance fluids (IV) Transfer to
discharge** Hct: normal higher centre

* Look for co-morbid illnesses and coinfections refer Sections 5.3 and 5.4 for details

** Patient should be advised to come for follow-up after 24 h for evaluation. He should report to the nearest
hospital immediately in case of the following complaints:
Bleeding from any site (fresh red spots on skin, black stools, red urine, nose bleed, menorrhagia)
Severe abdominal pain, refusal to take orally/poor intake, persistent vomiting
Not passing urine for 12 h/decreased urinary output
Restlessness, seizures, excessive crying (young infants), altered sensorium and behavioural changes
and severe persistent headache
Cold clammy skin
Sudden drop in temperature
# Also follow Chart 1 to 3 fir volume replacement algorithm

Notes:
In a medical care set-up where blood transfusion facility is not available to manage thrombocytopenia
of DHF, platelets can be obtained from a nearby licensed blood bank.
Whole bood preserved at 4oC does not have much role in correcting thrombocytopenia as platelets are
preserved at 22oC.

31
 CHAPTER 7

NURSING CARE IN ADMITTED CASES

22
Nursing care plays an integral role in management of dengue patients admitted to hospital.

7.1 Basic management

The basic management of dengue patients admitted to hospital includes the following:
a mosquito-free environment in hospital
close monitoring of patient vitals, input and output, oxygen saturation, sensorium
early identification of warning signs and symptoms
avoid NSAID and intramuscular injections
psychological support for patient and family.

7.2 Warning signs and symptoms

Presence of the following signs and symptoms require close monitoring and management:

respiratory distress
oxygen desaturation
severe abdominal pain
excessive vomiting
altered sensorium, confusion
convulsions
rapid and thready pulse
narrowing of pulse pressure less than 20 mmHg
urine output less than 0.5 ml/kg/h
laboratory evidence of thrombocytopenia/coagulopathy, rising Hct, metabolic
acidosis, derangement of liver/kidney function tests.

7.3 Managing common problems in dengue patients

Management of common problems in dengue patients are summed up below.

High-grade fever. Tepid sponging/paracetamol. Encourage intake of plenty of oral

fluids.
Abdominal pain. Severe abdominal pain may be a sign of severe complication, so
remain vigilant and inform the treating doctor.
Bleeding. Estimate and record the amount of blood loss, monitor vitals and inform
the doctor.
Plasma leakage. Monitor vitals, Hct and input/output. Encourage oral intake if
possible and start IV fluid as per instructions.
Shock/impending shock. Monitor vitals, input/output Hct and sensorium. Start IV
fluids/inotropes as per instructions.

32
 Decreased urine output. First rule out catheter blockade by palpating the bladder.
Flush the catheter if blocked. Continue monitoring vitals, input/output and inform the
doctor.
Respiratory distress. Check oxygen saturation and administer oxygen via facemask
or nasal catheter if SpO2 <90%. Look for pleural effusion, cardiac involvement and
inform the doctor.
Convulsions/encephalopathy. Pay attention to maintenance of airway, breathing
and circulation (ABC). Be ready with resuscitation set for emergency intubation and
mechanical ventilation.
Fluid overload can develop during recovery phase of the illness due to fluid shifts.
Closely observe for pedal oedema, neck vein engorgement and respiratory
distress. Continue strict input/output monitoring during the recovery phase.

33
 ANNEXURES

Annexure 1

READY RECKONER

In an outbreak situation where it is not possible to admit every patient, it is important to prioritize to
decide who needs in-hospital care the most. The following points are important to distinguish
between those patients who need hospitalization and those who can be clinically managed at home.

1. Dengue corner
Consider having a dengue corner in the hospital during the transmission season which is
functional round the clock with adequate trained manpower and facilities for:

tourniquet test
BP cuff of all sizes
lab investigations at least for CBC: Hb, Hct, total leukocyte count (TLC), differential
leukocyte count (DLC), platelet count, peripheral blood smear.

2. Lab investigations for diagnosis and confirmation

NS1 ELISA test to be done on patients reporting during the first five days of fever.
Serology to be done on or after day 5 by MAC-ELISA. In an outbreak, all suspected patients
of dengue need not undergo serology for purpose of clinical management.

3. Indications for domiciliary management

If patients have none of the following conditions, they can be managed at home:

tachycardia;
hypotension;
narrowing of pulse pressure;
bleeding;
and
haemoconcentration.

The patient should come for follow up and evaluation after 24 hours. The patient should report to the
nearest hospital immediately in case of the following complaints:

bleeding from any site (fresh red spots on skin, black stools, red urine, nose bleed,
menorrhagia);
severe abdominal pain, not taking food orally/poor intake, persistent vomiting;
not passing urine for 12 h/decreased urinary output;
restlessness, seizures, excessive crying (young infants), altered sensorium and behavioural
changes and severe persistent headache;
cold clammy skin; and
sudden drop in temperature.

4. Conditions for admission

A patient showing the following symptoms and signs should be considered for admission to hospital:
significant bleeding from any site;
any warning signs and symptoms;

34
 o
persistent high grade fever (38.5 C and above);
impending circulatory failure tachycardia, postural hypotension, narrow pulse pressure
(<20 mmHg, with rising diastolic pressure, e.g. 100/90 mmHg), increased capillary refilling
time > 2 secs;
neurological abnormalities restlessness, seizures, excessive crying (young infant), altered
sensorium and behavioural changes, severe and persistent headache;
drop in temperature and/or rapid deterioration in general condition; and
shock cold clammy skin, hypotension/narrow pulse pressure, tachypnoea.

It should be noted that a patient may remain fully conscious until a late stage.

5. Investigations for indoor patients

Chest X-ray: PA view and lateral decubitus, one day after temperature drops
USG abdomen and chest
Blood biochemistry: serum electrolytes, kidney function test and liver function test if required

6. Indoor management of patients

(a) Indications for blood transfusion (packed red blood cells [PRBC])
Loss of blood (overt blood) 10% or more of total blood volume
Refractory shock despite adequate fluid administration, and declining Hct
Replacement volume should be 10 ml/kg body weight at a time and coagulogram should be
done
If fluid overload is present, packed-cell volume (PCV) is to be given.

(b) Indications for platelet transfusion

Platelet transfusion is not the mainstay of treatment in patients with DF. In general, there is
3
no need to give prophylactic platelets even if at platelet count >10 000/mm .
3
Prophylactic platelet transfusion may be given at levels of <10 000/mm in the absence of
bleeding manifestations
Prolonged shock with coagulopathy and abnormal coagulogram
In case of systemic bleeding, platelet transfusion may be needed in addition to red cell
transfusion.

7. Criteria for discharge of patients

Absence of fever for at least 24 hours without the use of anti-fever therapy
No respiratory distress from pleural effusion or ascites
3
Platelet count > 50 000/mm
Return of appetite
Good urine output
Minimum of 2 to 3 days after recovery from shock
Visible clinical improvement.

8. Use of whole blood/fresh frozen plasma/cryoprecipitate in coagulopathy

Use of whole blood/fresh frozen plasma/cryoprecipitate is to be done in coagulopathy with bleeding
as per advice of the treating physician and the patient's condition.

Note: These are only broad guidelines to assist physicians in managing patients. Decisions should be taken as
per the severity of individual cases.

35
Annexure 2

PLATELET PRODUCTS

1. Random donor platelets (RDP). The platelets are prepared from whole blood. Depending
upon the method of preparation, they can be classified as PRP platelets or buffy coat
reduced platelets. Either of these platelet products have a volume of 4050 ml, platelet
2
content of =4.5x10 and shelf life of 5 days. These whole-blood derived platelet concentrates
are expected to raise the platelet count by 57 thousand in adults and 20 thousand in
paediatric patients.

2. Buffy coat pooled platelets (BCPP). Pooled buffy coat platelet concentrates are derived
from four donations of whole blood (obtained from the buffy coat of ABO identical donors re-
suspended in plasma or additive solutions). BCPP has a volume of 160200 ml, with platelet
content ranging from 2.5 to 4.4x10 per product.

3. Single donor apheresis (SDP). These are collected by a variety of apheresis systems
using different protocols. A single donation procedure may yield one to three therapeutic
doses and the donation may be split between two or three bags, depending on counts. SDP
are leukocyte reduced; however, in some apheresis systems, filtration may be required for
leucocyte depletion. For SDP collection, donors are tested for platelet count, transfusion
transmitted infection (TTI) markers and blood group before collection. The average volume
11
for SDP is 200300 ml, yield or platelet content is 3x10 per bag and is thus equal to 56
RDP. Thus, it also often regarded as the jumbo pack. SDPs are expected to increase a
patient's platelet count by 3050 000/ul. BCPP serves as an alternative choice of SDP in
case of emergency.

a. Compatibility testing is not required for platelet concentrates. Platelet concentrates from
donors of the identical ABO group and the patient can have the components of choice and
should be used as far as is possible. However, administration of ABO non-identical platelet
transfusions are also an acceptable transfusion practice; in particular, when platelet
concentrates are in short supply.

b. Similarly, RhD-negative platelet concentrates should be given, where possible, to RhD-

negative patients, particularly to women who have not reached menopause. If RhD-positive
platelets are transfused to an RhD-negative woman of childbearing potential, it is
recommended that anti-D should be given. A dose of 300 IU of anti-D should be sufficient to
cover six SDP or 30 RDP RhD-positive platelets within a 6-week period.

c. Platelets with WBC counts of <8.3x105 in RDP and <5x106 in SDP or BCPP are regarded
as leuco-reduced platelets. Leuco-reduced platelets offer the advantage of decreased CMV
transmission, febrile non-haemolytic transfusion reaction and all immunization. Irradiated
platelet or blood products are used for patients at risk of TA-GVHD.

d. The standard dose for adults is 56 units of random donor platelets or one unit of apheresis
11
platelets or one unit of BCPP, equivalent to 3x10 platelets. For neonates/infants, the dose
of the platelets should be 1015ml/kg of body weight.

36
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37
532, A - Wing, Nirman Bhawan National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme
Maulana Azad Road, New Delhi 110 011 (Directorate General of Health Services,
www.searo.who.int/india Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India)
22 - Shamnath Marg, Delhi - 110054
www.nvbdcp.gov.in