The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered how patients access medical services globally. Recent research highlights a concerning shift in dengue healthcare seeking behavior during and after the outbreak. While the pandemic overwhelmed health systems, it also created a "smokescreen" effect. Clinicians often misattributed febrile illnesses to COVID-19. Consequently, this led to critical delays in dengue diagnosis and management.

Analyzing Delays in Care

A sentinel surveillance study in Puerto Rico compared data from 2014–2020 to 2020–2023. Researchers found that the median age of patients seeking care for dengue increased during the latter period. Furthermore, the duration of illness before presenting to a healthcare facility shifted significantly. This change reflected how communities perceived risk and accessible care. Therefore, these delays can lead to a higher risk of severe complications. Such complications include plasma leakage and dangerous hemorrhagic manifestations.

Optimizing Dengue Healthcare Seeking Behavior in India

In India, where dengue is hyper-endemic, clinicians observed similar trends. Many patients avoided hospitals due to fear of COVID-19 infection. Others found that diagnostic resources were redirected to pandemic needs. Therefore, clinicians must remain vigilant during monsoon seasons. Early identification of "warning signs" is essential for patient survival. These signs include persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, and mucosal bleeding. Additionally, the National Guidelines for 2023 emphasize that early fluid management is the cornerstone of treatment. Because symptoms overlap with other viral infections, laboratory confirmation is vital. Providers should use NS1 antigen or IgM ELISA for timely intervention.

Conclusion

The pandemic demonstrated that health-seeking patterns are fragile. By understanding these shifts, providers can better educate patients on when to seek immediate care. Continuous surveillance and public awareness are necessary. These efforts ensure that seasonal dengue outbreaks do not result in preventable deaths due to delayed presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did COVID-19 affect dengue diagnosis?

The overlap of symptoms like fever and body ache often led to misdiagnosis. Additionally, many patients delayed seeking care due to lockdowns or fear of contracting COVID-19 in hospitals.

What are the primary warning signs for immediate dengue care?

Patients should seek urgent medical attention if they experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, or bleeding gums, as these indicate a progression toward severe dengue.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a professional relationship. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Choquette J et al. Delays in Seeking Health Care among Patients with Dengue Recruited in a Sentinel Surveillance System in Puerto Rico before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2026 Feb 17. doi: undefined. PMID: 41701985.


2. National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). National Guidelines for Clinical Management of Dengue Fever. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. 2023.


3. Gajbhiye R et al. Co-infection of malaria and dengue in pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2. International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2020.