Standard operating protocol for dengue diagnosis and management

Abstract

Dengue outbreaks in low- and middle-income countries contribute to significant hospital burden and preventable deaths. Early diagnosis and severity assessment are crucial to reduce unnecessary hospitalisation and prevent dengue-related complications. This standard operating protocol outlines a practical approach to diagnosis, triage, and fluid management based on current evidence and expert consensus. Hospitalisation and intravenous fluids are recommended for patients with warning signs, plasma leakage, or severe dengue. Judicious fluid administration is essential to avoid complications from both under- and over-resuscitation.