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By Borun Kumar Das

DHAKA, Sept 4, 2026 (BSS) - Medical experts have advised pregnant women to seek medical attention promptly if they develop fever, as dengue infection during pregnancy can pose serious risks to both the mother and the unborn child.

They said pregnant women are belongs to vulnerable group and require close medical monitoring from the onset of symptoms if dengue is suspected or diagnosed.

Obstetricians and gynecologists advised pregnant women with fever to consult a doctor and undergo a complete blood count (CBC) within 24 hours.

They said paracetamol may be taken to reduce fever, but other medicines, particularly painkillers, should not be used without medical advice.

The experts advised patients to undergo dengue testing at the onset of fever and repeat the test after four days, as directed by a physician.

They also stressed close monitoring for warning signs, including reduced urination, severe weakness, abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, skin rashes and red spots on the face or body.

Hospitalisation may be necessary if such symptoms develop, they said.

The experts cautioned that the period when fever subsides can be particularly dangerous in dengue situation, and patients should remain under medical supervision during this phase.

Obstetrician and gynecologist and former director of the Azimpur Maternity and Child Health Training Institute Dr Nahida Nazneen told BSS that bleeding is one of the major concerns when a pregnant woman contracts dengue.

"Extra precautions are needed during delivery, whether it is normal or by cesarean section," she said, adding that multiple blood donors should be kept ready if the patient is infected with dengue.

She said the newborn should be examined immediately after delivery by a pediatrician, as the baby may also require close monitoring.

She also warned that heavy bleeding may occur after delivery.

"Unless it is absolutely necessary, surgical delivery or pain medication should be avoided in a pregnant dengue patient," she said.

Regarding dengue management during pregnancy, Dr Nahida advised patients to drink adequate fluids, including safe drinking water, oral saline, fruit juice and soup.

She also recommended complete bed rest, regular platelet counts and ultrasonography as advised by doctors.

Public health expert Dr Mushtaq Hossain said pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to infections because pregnancy brings changes to the body's immune response.

He advised families with pregnant women to take preventive measures to stop Aedes mosquitoes from breeding around their homes.

"Pregnant women should sleep under mosquito nets and wear full-sleeved clothes and socks to reduce the risk of mosquito bites," he said.

He also advised pregnant women with fever to undergo dengue testing promptly and remain vigilant even when symptoms are mild or absent, as dengue infection without obvious symptoms can also pose risks during pregnancy.