Dengue Fever in Kids: Symptoms, Risks, and When to See a Doctor?

Each year, the dengue virus continues to pose a growing threat to children, particularly in urban regions where mosquito breeding is harder to control. Unlike routine seasonal infections, dengue in kids can follow a much less predictable course.  

A study in Delhi found that among 1,000 children followed for one year, about 38 developed dengue, with the highest burden among children aged 510 years. 

The virus, transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, causes a range of symptoms, from unremarkable fever to serious complications that emerge quickly. In young children, the early signals often go unnoticed or mimic benign viral illnesses, and dengue is missed.  

Hence, it is important to understand dengue symptoms in kids and get them treatment before it’s too late. 

What Are the Dengue Symptoms in Children? 

Understanding the symptoms of dengue in kids can be complex because they might not express it the right way. The earliest signs often seem disconnected or vague. 

Early Indicators 

In the initial febrile phase, dengue often shows up with: 

• High-grade fever (over 102°F) 
• Body aches or joint pain 
• Headache or discomfort behind the eyes 
• Weakness and general fatigue 

Smaller children may not be able to talk about body aches, but instead appear cranky, refuse food, or sleep excessively. Some may show a faint rash or flushed skin that comes and goes. These are some mild dengue symptoms that are often missed. 

Escalating Symptoms 

As the infection progresses, a small percentage of children develop more serious signs that suggest complications. This includes: 

• Persistent vomiting 
• Unusual bleeding (gums, nose, or in urine) 
• Severe abdominal discomfort 
• Extreme sleepiness or irritability 
• Sudden drop in body temperature despite ongoing illness 
• Pale, cold hands and feet 
• Breathlessness or rapid breathing 

These symptoms may point toward dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Such conditions require immediate medical attention. It’s important not to delay action once these signs are observed. 

Stages of Dengue in Children: Febrile, Critical, and Recovery 

Dengue fever usually progresses through three clinical stages. Here’s a detailed overview: 

Stage                     Duration        What Happens 

Febrile Phase         Day 1–3           Sudden high fever, headache, mild rashes, and dehydration risk. 

Critical Phase         Day 4–6           Fever drops with risk of bleeding, fluid leakage, and an increase in low platelet counts. 

Recovery Phase     Day 7–10          Gradual return of appetite, stable vitals, slow reversal of symptoms. 

Many parents assume that the child is recovering once the fever subsides. But in dengue, the fever drop can mark the beginning of the critical phase, not the end of illness. 

When to Take Your Child to the Doctor? 

Not every fever needs hospital care, but in suspected dengue cases, it is a must. The following indicators are alarming: 

• Fever lasting more than 2 days without improvement 
• The child refuses fluids or vomits up everything that is consumed 
• Signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, sunken eyes, low urine output) 
• Sudden onset of bleeding or bruising 
• Extreme fatigue or unresponsiveness 

If you’re not sure if the symptoms match dengue, get a lab test done as soon as you can.  

How Is Dengue Treated in Kids? 

There’s no single drug that cures dengue. Treatment is done based on the severity of the case: 

In milder cases: 

• Keep the child hydrated with fluids, ORS, or soups. 
• Use paracetamol for fever (avoid ibuprofen or aspirin). 
• Ensure bed rest and nutrition. 

In more severe scenarios: 

• Hospitalization may be required. 
• Intravenous fluids are given if oral intake is insufficient. 
• Doctors will track platelet count, haematocrit levels, and liver enzymes frequently. 
• In rare cases, blood transfusions are needed. 

Dengue recovery usually takes 7–10 days, but post-infection fatigue and irritability can last longer in younger children. 

Conclusion 

Dengue is a complex illness for children. What starts as a fever can progress without much warning. Parents need to know how to track patterns that don’t feel normal, especially when they can't express their discomfort (infants and toddlers). Familiarity with the stages of dengue, knowledge of when to seek care, and consulting the doctor at the right time can drastically improve outcomes. 

At Hinduja Hospital Mahim, our paediatricians are trained in early detection and management of dengue across all age groups. Whether your child shows mild symptoms or is at risk of severe progression, our team ensures timely testing, child-focused treatment, and safe recovery. 

Book a consultation at Hinduja Hospital Mahim for expert dengue care and personalized attention to your child’s health. 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) 

Is dengue harmful for kids? 

Yes, dengue can be serious in children. If it progresses to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), it can lead to internal bleeding, fluid leakage, or organ complications. Children under 15 and those who’ve had dengue before face a higher risk of severe illness. 

What fruit is good for dengue fever? 

Fruits that help during dengue recovery include papaya, bananas, watermelon, kiwi, oranges, and pomegranate. These support hydration, improve energy levels, and provide vitamins and antioxidants.