The Tale of the Two Diseases of 2022 – COVID-19 and Dengue

There is an outbreak of both COVID-19 and dengue. How do we differentiate the two?

• It can be hard to separate these 2 illnesses. Fever, muscle ache and headache are the most commonly reported symptoms with both. Some people may even experience diarrhoea or sore throat with both.

• However, smell or taste abnormalities appears to be a hallmark of COVID-19. In particular, mild upper respiratory symptoms (nasal congestion, sneezing) appear to be more common with the Delta and Omicron variants. Chest infection with fever, worsening cough or shortness of breath is the most frequent serious manifestation of a COVID-19 infection. While it is estimated that 60% of the population has caught COVID-19, there are still serious consequences which cannot be ignored. You can be infected repeatedly with different variants of COVID-19 hence prevention is still better than cure.

• For dengue, pain behind your eyes and marked muscle and bone pains are hallmarks of this condition. Worryingly, bleeding manifestations and platelet dysfunction can also occur. If a doctor examines you, they may notice skin rashes in approximately 50% of the cases. Plasma leakage is the most specific and life-threatening feature of a Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever and usually occurs over a period of 24-48 hours, typically coincident with the fever resolving. Serious symptoms include progressive weakness, dizziness and fainting episodes.

What medications or food should we be taking to get better if we get any infection?

• Fever may be controlled with medications such as Paracetamol, however non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should not be used in patients with dengue fever as these drugs can interfere with platelet function and potentially increase the risk of bleeding.

• Patients should take plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Some symptoms of dehydration include decrease in urination, dry mouth / lips, sunken eyes, listlessness and cold extremities.

• Lastly, keeping to a balance and healthy diet with adequate nutrition is vital in ensuring a well-functioning immunity system. Therefore, take plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants as well as adequate daily servings of proteins and carbohydrates.

Healthsprings is located at various clinics – GP Clinic Orchard, Bukit Panjang Clinic or Woodleigh Clinic / Woodleigh Family Clinic.