12-Year-Old Girl in Pune Succumbs to Suspected Dengue-Like Illness

A 12-year-old girl from Pune, undergoing treatment at Sassoon General Hospital (SGH), tragically passed away on Sunday. The girl, a resident of Mangalwar Peth, was initially admitted to Kamla Nehru Hospital on June 28 in a critical condition, displaying symptoms consistent with dengue shock syndrome. These symptoms included fever, disorientation, hypotension, loose motions, and nausea.

Historical Context of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, has been a significant public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Historically, dengue outbreaks have caused substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The disease is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which thrives in stagnant water and urban environments. Efforts to control dengue have included mosquito control measures, public health campaigns, and, more recently, the development of vaccines.

Details of the Case

Upon her arrival at Kamla Nehru Hospital, the girl’s condition was deemed critical, prompting her immediate transfer to SGH for advanced medical care. Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), reported that the girl succumbed to pulmonary hemorrhage due to septic shock, myocarditis, and pancytopenia—conditions often associated with severe dengue fever.

Dr. Yellapa Jadhav, Medical Superintendent of SGH, confirmed that the girl exhibited symptoms akin to dengue shock syndrome and possibly enteric fever. Despite receiving appropriate medical treatment, she passed away within two days, before her diagnostic reports could be finalized.

Additional Factors

PMC officials noted that the girl had been taking alternative medicine for over a week prior to her hospitalization. Initial suspicions of a typhoid infection were ruled out through testing. Dr. Gopal Ujwankar, Ward Medical Officer of PMC, suggested that the girl’s symptoms were indicative of a dengue virus infection, although no confirmed reports were available. Dr. Dighe also mentioned the possibility of a delay in initiating treatment, which may have contributed to the severity of her condition.

Summary

• A 12-year-old girl from Pune passed away due to suspected dengue-like illness.
• She was initially admitted to Kamla Nehru Hospital and later transferred to Sassoon General Hospital.
• Symptoms included fever, disorientation, hypotension, loose motions, and nausea.
• Historical context: Dengue fever is a significant public health issue in tropical regions, transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
• The girl succumbed to pulmonary hemorrhage, septic shock, myocarditis, and pancytopenia.
• She had been taking alternative medicine for over a week.
• Initial suspicions of typhoid were ruled out.
• There was a potential delay in starting treatment, which may have worsened her condition.