The Nayarit Ministry of Health warns that self-medication and delaying medical care increase the risk of developing hemorrhagic dengue or severe organ damage.
Nayarit Health Secretary Bertha Ruiz Huerta acknowledged that many dengue patients are arriving at medical facilities too late to receive a proper diagnosis. This delay significantly increases the risk of serious complications and can even become life-threatening.
The official urged the public to recognize the symptoms of dengue early and seek medical attention immediately, avoiding self-medication or the mistaken belief that resting at home is enough.
“This is happening because many patients are arriving too late for diagnosis. It is very important that everyone recognizes the symptoms, but many people think nothing serious will happen, stay home to rest, and self-medicate. In many cases, they don’t even know they have diabetes or another underlying health condition,” Ruiz Huerta said.
What Are the Symptoms of Dengue?
The Health Secretary reminded the public that the main symptoms of dengue include:
- High fever.
- Severe bone pain.
- Muscle pain.
- Skin rash.
She emphasized that anyone experiencing these symptoms should go to a medical facility immediately to receive a timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Dengue Tests Are Free in Nayarit
Bertha Ruiz Huerta announced that free dengue testing is available to everyone, regardless of whether they have public health insurance.
She explained that the State Public Health Laboratory, located at Ciudad de la Salud, has the capacity to perform confirmatory tests. However, patients must first visit their nearest health center to be evaluated by medical personnel.
“Anyone can go to any public health facility. All of our medical units are prepared to perform dengue testing. We have a laboratory at the State Public Health Laboratory in Ciudad de la Salud where the tests are processed. But before taking the test, you need to visit your nearest health center or medical unit, whether or not you have health insurance. This is very important—there is absolutely no charge,” she explained.
What Happens If You Don’t Seek Medical Care After Contracting Dengue?
Health authorities warned that if dengue is not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can progress into more severe conditions, including:
- Hemorrhagic dengue.
- Severe dehydration.
- Liver damage.
- Neurological disorders.
- Heart complications.
- Kidney failure.
These complications may require hospitalization and can even be fatal.
In addition, some people may continue to experience long-term effects after recovering from dengue, including prolonged fatigue, persistent muscle and joint pain, hair loss, vision problems, weight loss, headaches, and mood changes.
Finally, the Nayarit Ministry of Health reiterated its recommendation that people avoid self-medication and seek immediate medical attention as soon as symptoms appear, emphasizing that early diagnosis is essential to preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment.
Source: heraldodemexico
