Knowledge and Practices of General Practitioners Regarding Management and Prevention of Dengue Fever

Background: Dengue is caused by the infection of dengue virus. The virus is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, of which Aedes aegypti is the most important vector. Early recognition of dengue is a crucial first step in this process, with a robust management strategy at the first point of care having the invaluable potential to reduce unnecessary hospitalization and prevent death. General practitioners have a vital and active role to play in providing care, support and identifying the sign of impending haemorrhagic dengue fever which is serious consequences of dengue fever needs referral tertiary care for intravenous fluid replacement, platelet transfusion along with supportive care. Aim: To assess knowledge about dengue fever, its management and prevention among GPs. Methods: It was cross-sectional descriptive study included 38 general practitioners practicing in Shakargarh city, District Narowal over a period of one month from 20.07.2012 to 20.08.2012. Results: There were 28 (73.7%) were males and 10 (26.3%) were females with mean age of 45.0 +/- 11.07 years. Five (39.5%) practitioners attended short course/symposium on management of dengue fever, 33 (86.8%) advised full blood count on first visit of dengue suspected patients and diagnosed as dengue fever patients. Twenty (68.4%) practitioners classified the patients of dengue fever into different management groups as per WHO guidelines. Eleven (28.9%) practitioners referred the patients to specialized center. Nineteen (50%) practitioners gave emergency treatment and referred to specialized center. Twenty eight (73.7%) practitioners advised ORS and 25 (65.8%) gave intravenous fluids for management of dehydration. Conclusion: Intravenous fluids and ORS were preferred extensively for the management of dehydration and strict bed rest was also advised.