Dengue and Malaria Cases Rising in Lucknow: How to Differentiate Symptoms

In the last 24 hours, Lucknow has reported 39 new cases of dengue and three of malaria, taking the city’s total to 837, of which 429 cases of dengue and 408 of malaria, according to data from the chief medical officer (CMO ) published on Saturday. The health department clarified that the death of a 71-year-old woman, a suspected dengue patient, was due to acute kidney injury, severe metabolic acidosis and sudden pulmonary cardiac arrest, and not dengue.

Amid the rise in cases, CMO teams continue to inspect high-risk areas and spray insecticides to prevent mosquito breeding. On Saturday, the city malaria unit and district malaria officer visited 1,160 households and found mosquito breeding conditions in six. They also raised awareness about prevention measures. New dengue cases have emerged in Aliganj, Chander Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, NK Road, Indiranagar, Chinhat, Tudiyiaganj, Bakshi Ka Talab (BKT) and Aishbagh. New cases of malaria were reported from Aliganj, BKT and Chander Nagar.

But how do you know if someone has signs of dengue or malaria? Here we have listed the signs and symptoms of dengue and malaria to differentiate them.

Signs and symptoms of dengue

Fever: Dengue usually begins with a sudden high fever. This fever can last from 2 to 7 days.

Severe headaches: Severe headaches, often described as behind the eyes, are common in cases of dengue. These headaches can become severe and debilitating.

Pain behind the eyes: Patients may experience pain behind the eyes, especially when moving them from side to side.

Muscle and joint pain: Dengue is often associated with severe muscle and joint pain, which can make even the simplest movements uncomfortable.

Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and fatigue are typical during the acute phase of dengue. Patients may feel exhausted and lethargic.

Nausea and vomiting: Many dengue patients experience nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, which can contribute to dehydration.

Rash: A characteristic skin rash may appear after the initial fever subsides. This rash is usually bright red and can spread throughout the body.

Minor bleeding: Some patients may experience minor bleeding, such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums. Severe bleeding is rare, but can occur in severe cases known as dengue hemorrhagic fever.

Low platelet count: Dengue can cause a decrease in platelet count, increasing the risk of bleeding and bruising. Controlling platelet levels is essential in severe cases.

Dengue shock syndrome: In severe cases, dengue fever can progress to dengue shock syndrome, characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure, causing shock and organ failure. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Signs and symptoms of malaria

Fever: Malaria often begins with a high fever, which can come and go in cycles. The fever may be accompanied by chills and sweating.

Headaches: Severe headaches are common in malaria infections and often occur along with fever.

Fatigue: Malaria can cause extreme tiredness and weakness, even after minimal physical exertion.

Nausea and vomiting: Many people with malaria experience nausea, vomiting, and a general feeling of malaise.

Muscle aches: Malaria can cause muscle aches and pains throughout the body, which can be debilitating.

Joint pain: Some people with malaria may experience joint pain or stiffness, particularly in larger joints such as the knees and shoulders.

Abdominal pain: Malaria can cause abdominal discomfort, including cramps and tenderness.

Diarrhea: In some cases, malaria can cause diarrhea, which increases the general malaise and weakness experienced by the individual.

Jaundice: In severe cases of malaria, the skin and whites of the eyes may turn yellow due to liver dysfunction, a condition known as jaundice.

Anemia: Malaria can cause a decrease in red blood cells, causing anemia, which can manifest as weakness, pale skin, and difficulty breathing.