Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya in Bihar: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Introduction

Every year, Bihar witnesses a sharp rise in mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya, especially during the monsoon season. These illnesses are not only common but can also become life-threatening if ignored. Early diagnosis, timely treatment, and preventive measures are the best ways to stay safe.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• Causes of dengue, malaria, and chikungunya
  
  

• Early signs and symptoms
  
  

• Diagnosis methods
  
  

• Prevention strategies
  
  

• Treatment options available in Bihar
  
  

Causes of Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya

1. Dengue – Spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which bites during the day. The virus affects blood platelets and can cause severe fever.
   
   

2. Malaria – Caused by the Plasmodium parasite transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. It mainly attacks red blood cells and the liver.
   
   

3. Chikungunya – Also spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, it leads to severe joint pain and fever.
   
   

👉 Common Factor: All three diseases are transmitted by mosquito bites.

Early Signs and Symptoms :-

Dengue Symptoms

• High fever (104°F or above)
  
  

• Severe headache
  
  

• Pain behind the eyes
  
  

• Muscle and joint pain
  
  

• Nausea and vomiting
  
  

• Skin rashes
  
  

• Danger sign: Low platelet count leading to bleeding
  
  

Malaria Symptoms

• High fever with chills and shivering
  
  

• Sweating after fever subsides
  
  

• Headache and muscle pain
  
  

• Fatigue and weakness
  
  

• Anemia in severe cases
  
  

Chikungunya Symptoms

• Sudden high fever
  
  

• Severe joint pain (lasting weeks or months)
  
  

• Skin rash
  
  

• Headache and fatigue
  
  

• Red eyes (sometimes)
  
  

Diagnosis Methods

• Blood Tests:
  
  

  • Dengue NS1 antigen test, ELISA test
    
    

  • Malaria blood smear or rapid diagnostic test
    
    

  • Chikungunya IgM antibody test
    
    

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check platelet levels (important in dengue).
  
  

• Liver and Kidney Function Tests: In severe malaria and dengue cases.
  
  

Prevention Tips (Most Important in Bihar)

✅ Keep surroundings clean – don’t allow water to collect in containers, tyres, or coolers.
✅ Use mosquito repellents, nets, and wear full-sleeve clothes.
✅ Ensure proper drainage to avoid stagnant water.
✅ Government sprays and fogging should be supported in your area.
✅ Cover drinking water containers properly.
✅ Spread awareness in rural and urban Bihar about mosquito-borne illnesses.

Treatment Options

Dengue

• No specific antiviral drug
  
  

• Focus on hydration, rest, and monitoring platelet count
  
  

• Paracetamol for fever (avoid aspirin & ibuprofen as they increase bleeding risk)
  
  

• Severe cases may need hospitalization and platelet transfusion
  
  

Malaria

• Antimalarial medicines prescribed based on type (Plasmodium vivax or falciparum)
  
  

• Common medicines: Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT), Chloroquine (in some cases)
  
  

• Proper hydration and rest
  
  

Chikungunya

• No specific cure
  
  

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
  
  

• Rest and hydration are crucial
  
  

• Joint exercises/physiotherapy may help in recovery
  
  

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical help immediately if you experience:

• High fever that doesn’t subside
  
  

• Severe headache with rashes or bleeding gums (possible dengue)
  
  

• Repeated chills and sweating (possible malaria)
  
  

• Joint pain lasting more than a week (possible chikungunya)
  
  

• Persistent vomiting, dehydration, or confusion
  
  

Final Thoughts -

Dengue, malaria, and chikungunya are preventable diseases. In Bihar, where monsoon and floods increase the risk of mosquito breeding, awareness and prevention are the strongest tools to protect yourself and your family. If you notice early symptoms, consult a doctor immediately instead of self-medicating.