Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a condition caused by the dengue virus, often impacting children under the age of 10. It is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bleeding, and sudden collapse. The illness begins suddenly with a high, persistent fever and headache, accompanied by respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms like cough, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Shock may develop between 2 to 6 days, leading to a rapid collapse, cold and clammy extremities, a weak and rapid pulse, and a bluish tint around the mouth. Bleeding is common, with easy bruising, skin spots, vomiting blood, bloody stools, gum bleeding, and nosebleeds. Heart inflammation can also occur. The mortality rate is significant, ranging from 6% to 30%, with most fatalities occurring in children, particularly infants under one year. DHF is sometimes referred to as Philippine, Thai, or Southeast Asian fever.
