Dengue fever is arguably one of the most dangerous and prevalent viral diseases transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes, especially in the tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world.
What is more, pregnant women are considered a high-risk group for dengue fever and its effects and there appears to be apprehensions about the results of this infection on pregnancy outcomes such as low birth weight in neonates.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is an infectious tropical disease caused by the tropical dengue virus that inflicts humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, especially the Aedes aegypti. Symptoms range from fever, headaches, muscle, and joint pain to severe forms like dengue hemorrhagic fever, and dengue shock syndrome. The disease’s manifestations are fever that goes up to 104° F
, severe headaches, eye pain behind the sclera, joint, and muscle pain, in addition to the rash, and a little bleeding such as bleeding in the nose or gums.
Dengue Fever During Pregnancy:
Therefore, pregnant women are considered to be at a higher risk of severe dengue cases mainly as a result of changes in immunity and circulatory systems. Such changes may result in increased gravity of the disease’s prognosis, the development of complications, hemorrhage, organ failure, death, and so on. Also, maternal infection with dengue fever during pregnancy increases the likelihood of preterm birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight.
Understanding Low Birth Weight:
According to the WHO, LBW is the delivery of a baby with a weight of less than 2, 500 grams (5. 5 pounds). LBW can be classified into preterm birth, in which a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, or IUGR where a baby does not grow to the normal size during pregnancy. LBW is important when it comes to the newborn’s well-being and the probability of outcomes that are unfortunate for the lives of the newborns, like early neonatal mortality, developmental difficulties, and awful health as they grow up.
The Relationship between Dengue Fever and Low Birth Weight:
Case studies reveal that pregnant women can have low birth weight babies if they contract dengue fever during pregnancy. Several mechanisms may explain this association:
Placental Dysfunction:
At times, dengue causes inflammation and destroys the structure known as the placenta, which the mother and the fetus mainly use to exchange nutrients and oxygen. If placental function gets compromised, there is bound to be a low supply of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus which can severely affect its growth and cause LBW.
Maternal Immune Response:
Dengue infection also has an effect on the immune response and fetal development may be impacted by the immunity response of the body. These molecules and others that are released during the infection can easily pass through the placental barrier, thus affecting fetal growth and development leading to LBW.
Maternal Health and Nutrition:
Certainly, dengue may be a cause of threatening complications for a pregnant woman, such as dehydration, anorexia, and deficiencies in nutritional support. The study also finds out that maternal ill health is a leading cause of LBW since pregnant women who are unhealthy and or not on a proper diet have their babies affected.
Preterm Birth:
They reveal that women who develop dengue fever would be at a greater risk of preterm labor and delivery. LBW is highly associated with preterm birth since babies, who are born before reaching the full term, will not have ample time for intra-uterine growth.
Evidence from Studies:
Many works focused on the association of dengue fever during pregnancy with low birth weight have been made. A review of the literature provides compelling evidence supporting this link.
Brazilian Study:
An investigation in Brazil observed that pregnant women who developed dengue, regardless of the phase, had higher chances of delivering preterm LBW babies than the ones who did not get infected with the virus. The study suggested that for pregnant women, dengue needs to be diagnosed early and managed to avoid drastic consequences.
Thai Study:
A study conducted in Thailand also has a similar observation that maternal dengue infection correlates with LBW. It also observed that women with dengue have a higher risk of preterm delivery and preterm premature rupture of membranes.
Multinational Analysis:
When meta-analyzing cross-sectional studies and another research source across several countries, the researchers proved the correlation between DF during pregnancy and adverse birth health, especially LBW and preterm birth. The analysis stressed the need to step up vigilance and preventive measures in a bid to shield pregnant women from getting infected with dengue.
Preventive Measures and Management:
Because of this, preventive measures as well as proper management for pregnant women with dengue fever should be practiced. Here are some key strategies
Mosquito Control:
Measures such as those described in the prevention section are crucial to minimize mosquito breeding and therefore minimize the chances of people getting infected with dengue. This consists of source reduction of mosquito breeding places, use of insect repellents, putting of fly screens on windows and doors, and correct dressing.
Early Diagnosis and Monitoring:
It is also important to note that pregnant women should also be followed up closely for any signs and symptoms of dengue most especially in the endemic regions.
For instance, blood tests help in early diagnosis, and consequently, necessary medical intervention is taken, hence decreasing the possibility of complications.
Hydration and Nutrition:
A pregnant woman with dengue should ensure she takes enough water, and a healthy diet as she awaits the day she will be discharged. The intake of fluids, and proper nutritive food can ensure the well-being of the mother, and proper development of the fetus as well.
Medical Care:
Pregnant women with dengue should seek appropriate medical treatment to ensure that their condition is well addressed with supportive treatment to avert any complications. In severe cases of the main symptoms, additional measures may be needed, such as hospitalization to monitor the patient’s condition.
Public Awareness and Education:
It is highly crucial to bring awareness regarding dengue fever and its danger to pregnant women plus encouraging preventive measures to be taken. Responsibility can be induced by creating awareness on matters concerning mosquitoes, early signs of dengue, and seeking treatment.
Conclusion:
Pregnant women affected by dengue fever are at high risk of complications, and this results in low birth weights, among other symptoms, in babies. Knowing the nature of this connection and how to avoid the corresponding risks is crucial for reducing such consequences. Through increasing vigilance to dengue, and increased awareness of early diagnosis and treatment, pregnant mothers can be safeguarded against dengue and produce healthier babies. Public health officials thus must maintain vigilance in the areas of personal protection against mosquito bites, health promotion, and education, and providing an enabling environment for pregnant women in regions affected by dengue fever.
Comments
Post a Comment