Jammu, May 17: In view of rising concerns over dengue infections, Government Medical College Jammu has issued a detailed advisory regarding prevention, diagnosis, and management of dengue fever, while assuring the public that adequate medical and laboratory facilities are available round the clock for patient care.
According to the advisory, dengue fever is caused by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes and symptoms generally appear within four to ten days after the bite. Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes.
The hospital administration warned that severe dengue cases require immediate medical attention. Symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, breathing difficulty, bleeding from gums or nose, and blood in vomit or stool should not be ignored.
GMC Jammu advised the public not to delay hospital visits in case of worsening symptoms, dehydration, or continuous fever. Adult patients have been asked to report at GMCH Medicine OPD between 9 AM and 2 PM and thereafter at the Emergency Department, while children can seek treatment at SMGS Hospital Paediatric OPD and Emergency Ward.
The advisory stated that dedicated dengue wards and indoor facilities have been kept ready for both adult and pediatric patients. The institution clarified that most dengue cases can be managed at home, while only severe cases require hospitalization.
To strengthen diagnosis and treatment, GMC Jammu has established 24×7 dengue testing facilities including Dengue NS1 ELISA, IgM ELISA, RT-PCR testing, complete blood counts, and platelet monitoring services. Blood sample collection counters have also been established at GMC Hospital, SMGS Hospital, and Super Specialty Hospital.
The hospital administration advised patients to maintain proper hydration, take medicines only as prescribed by doctors, monitor fever regularly, and immediately report any worsening condition. The advisory also cautioned patients against insisting on platelet transfusion unless recommended by doctors.
People suffering from diabetes, kidney diseases, or liver ailments have been urged to remain extra cautious and seek medical care without delay if symptoms develop.
The advisory further emphasized preventive measures including avoiding mosquito bites, eliminating stagnant water around homes, using mosquito nets, and keeping doors and windows closed wherever possible.
Reassuring the public, GMC Jammu stated that it is fully prepared to handle dengue cases and has adequate stock of platelets for patients whenever required.
