Chikungunya Virus Disease in Newborns and Children: Acute Phase Management
The acute phase of Chikungunya virus disease in newborns and children under 18 years calls for a paediatric-specific protocol. Important safety constraints apply to this age group that distinguish it from adult management.
Clinical Scenario
Acute-phase Chikungunya virus disease in newborns and children (age under 18 years).
NSAIDs are contraindicated within the first 14 days of illness in this population, and opioids should not be prescribed to children. Arthralgia in children is typically mild, short-lived, and paracetamol-responsive.
Treatment Approach — partial overview
Management centres on an age-appropriate analgesic/antipyretic as the primary intervention, with gastroprotective cover also addressed in the protocol.
Complete weight-based dosing, antacid selection criteria, and the full structured regimen are available via the link below.
References
No NSAIDs in the first 14 days of illness. Fortunately, arthralgia in children is mild, short-lived, and responsive to paracetamol.
Opioids should not be prescribed to children.
Pediatric dose of PCM - 10-15 mg/kg per dose 6 hrly not to exceed 3gm/24 hrs
Ranitidine (5-10 mg/kg/day divided 12 hrly) may be given in children. Lansoprazole < 30 kg 15 mg od; > 30 kg 30 mg od.
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