Standard operating protocol for dengue diagnosis and management

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Dengue outbreaks pose a significant health burden in low- and middle-income countries.
• Early diagnosis and severity assessment are critical for effective dengue management.
• Current evidence and expert consensus inform this standard operating protocol.

Discussion:

• The protocol provides a practical approach to dengue diagnosis and triage.
• It emphasizes judicious fluid management to prevent complications.
• Hospitalization and intravenous fluids are indicated for patients with warning signs, plasma leakage, or severe dengue.

Key Insights:

• Implementing this protocol can reduce unnecessary hospitalizations.
• Appropriate fluid management is key to preventing severe dengue complications.
• Standardized protocols improve patient outcomes during dengue outbreaks.

Outlook:

• This protocol aims to optimize patient care and reduce mortality.
• It serves as a guide for healthcare providers managing dengue.
• Further research may refine fluid management strategies for severe dengue.