Could a woman’s fever with chills indicate an infection?

Hello,

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I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Based on the laboratory report (attachments removed to protect the patient’s identity), the key finding is a very high dengue NS1 (non-structural protein 1) antigen test, which is positive. This confirms a dengue fever infection.

1. Continue taking Dolo 650 (Paracetamol) for fever and pain, but avoid NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like Ibuprofen or Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic acid) as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

2. Hydration is essential, so ensure she drinks plenty of fluids such as water, ORS (oral rehydration solution), coconut water, or soup.

3. Watch for warning signs like severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from gums or nose, black stools, extreme fatigue, or restlessness, and seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.

The diagnosis is dengue fever, and the primary focus should be on hydration, controlling symptoms with Paracetamol, and closely monitoring for severe symptoms. Antibiotics such as Amoxicillin are not effective because Dengue is a viral infection.

A positive dengue NS1 antigen test confirms an active infection, indicating that the virus is replicating in her body and she is in the early stage of illness, typically within the first five days of fever.

Her platelet count is 98,000 per microliter, which is lower than usual (150,000 to 450,000), and this must be monitored regularly since platelet levels can drop further in dengue. Her white blood cell count is 3,200 per microliter, which is also low, a common finding in viral infections like dengue due to temporary suppression of bone marrow function.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.