DSS disease or Dengue Shock Syndrome is a complication of dengue fever symptoms that is very dangerous. It can even be fatal. A mother who is a reader of theAsianparent shared her story when her child was diagnosed with DSS.
“My child was diagnosed with DSS or Dengue Shock Syndrome. At first, he only had symptoms of dengue fever, but his condition did not improve.
Fortunately, at that time, my husband and I quickly took him to the hospital. Yes, we did suspect he had dengue fever. Especially now, there have been many reports of children experiencing dengue fever in several areas.
But still, my child is now fighting complications from DSS, which the doctor says is critical. What parent’s heart wouldn’t break seeing their little one, still innocent, lying helpless, connected to many tubes. Like a robot, they said.
Yes, my child, who is only 4 years old, still doesn’t understand what is happening. He thinks he is playing the role of a robot. Only this game is happening in the hospital,” said the mother.
From the story above, we can learn that when a child shows serious symptoms, we should act quickly to take them to the hospital.
So, what exactly is DSS?
DSS disease or Dengue Shock Syndrome
Waspadai Dengue Shock Syndrome yang bisa menjadi komplikasi dari Demam Berdarah Dengue
Besides the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, dengue fever (DBD) should also be watched out for due to its recent high incidence rates. Especially when complications occur, like in the case above.
According to Alodokter, Dr. Arnold Fernando revealed that DSS is a complication of dengue fever that can be dangerous and even fatal. DSS happens when the dengue virus attacks body systems, such as the circulatory system.
If this condition occurs, the heart cannot supply enough blood to the entire body. As a result, blood volume decreases, causing damage to vital organs, including the brain, heart, lungs, and liver.
Parents, the risk of death in children varies depending on how quickly they receive treatment. If treatment is delayed, the death rate of DSS can reach 40%. On the other hand, if treated promptly, the death rate is only about 1-2%.
Symptoms of Dengue Shock Syndrome to watch out for
Ketahui berbagai gejala DSS yang bisa membahayakan keselamatan si kecil
Besides showing dengue fever symptoms, DSS patients can also experience several distinctive symptoms, including:
- Irregular breathing
- Weak pulse
- Low blood pressure
- Decreased urine output
- Dilated pupils
- Damp and cold skin
- Dry mouth
In other cases, dengue fever or DSS can cause organ damage, blood clotting, shock, and seizures.
Prevention of DSS you should know
Parents, don’t worry because Dengue Shock Syndrome can be prevented. What needs to be done when someone has dengue fever is to ensure their condition improves by getting plenty of rest.
Also, make sure fluid and nutrient intake is adequately fulfilled. Ensure that the diet meets balanced nutrition guidelines.

When someone has dengue fever (DBD), some patients are advised to be hospitalized, while others can be treated as outpatients. For those admitted, doctors usually identify risk factors for developing DSS, so it’s important to follow the doctor’s recommendations.
On the other hand, outpatient dengue patients have generally undergone medical assessment and are at lower risk. However, these patients are still expected to have regular check-ups to monitor their condition.
So, parents, we must always be careful. Don’t let your child’s treatment be delayed when they have dengue fever, which could lead to DSS.
Of course, we all hope our little ones never get dengue fever, so prevention is crucial. Prevention starts with eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, keeping the house clean, and maintaining the family’s immune system.
Hopefully, this information is helpful.