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What is Dengue?

Dengue is a viral illness transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected dengue mosquito. These mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti species, become carriers when they feed on the blood of a person already infected with the dengue virus. Afterward, they can pass the virus to others through bites.

How Does Dengue Spread?

  • Infected mosquitoes: The primary vector is the dengue mosquito (Aedes aegypti), which is most active during daylight, especially in the morning and late afternoon.
  • Mosquito bite: A dengue mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person who has the illness. When the mosquito bites another person, the infection is then spread.
  • Breeding grounds: These mosquitoes breed in stagnant water found in puddles, flower pots, discarded tires, and water containers. Areas with poor sanitation or stagnant water accumulation are at a higher risk of dengue fever.

Symptoms of Dengue

Usually, 4–10 days after being bitten by an infected insect, dengue symptoms start to show. These symptoms typically last two to seven days and might vary in severity.
  • High fever: A sudden spike in body temperature, sometimes reaching 104°F (40°C).
  • Severe headache: Intense pain, usually concentrated in the forehead.
  • Pain behind the eyes: A deep, throbbing discomfort felt behind the eyes.
  • Joint and muscle pain: Commonly referred to as “bone-breaking fever” due to the severe pain in muscles and joints.
  • Rash: A skin rash that may spread across the body after the fever sets in.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Feeling queasy or having vomiting fits.
  • Fatigue and weakness: Exhaustion and weakness, which may linger even after recovery.
  • Mild bleeding: There may be symptoms including nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising.
In severe cases, dengue haemorrhagic fever may develop, which can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure, or other life-threatening complications.

Diagnosis of Dengue

  • Symptoms observation: Physicians often rely on the signs of dengue to make an initial diagnosis.
  • Blood tests: A blood sample is analyzed to confirm the presence of the dengue virus or antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the infection.

Treatment for Dengue

There is no specific cure for dengue fever, but supportive care can help manage symptoms.

  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial to prevent dehydration caused by fever and vomiting.
  • Pain relief: Over-the-counter dengue treatment medicines like paracetamol (acetaminophen) can alleviate fever and reduce pain. Medicines that cam increase the risk of bleeding like Aspirin and Ibuprofen should not be taken.
  • Rest: Adequate rest supports the body’s recovery.
  • Hospitalization: Severe cases, such as dengue haemorrhagic fever, may require hospital care, including intravenous fluids and close monitoring.

Prevention of Dengue

Avoid mosquito bites:

Use insect repellents on exposed skin and wear protective clothing like long sleeves and pants.

Mosquito nets:

Sleep under treated nets, especially in regions with high mosquito activity.

Eliminate breeding grounds:

Regularly empty or cover containers holding stagnant water, such as flower pots, old tires, and buckets.

Install mosquito screens:

Use screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.

Use traps:

Mosquito traps can help control mosquito populations around your home.

Dengue Vaccination

The Dengvaxia vaccine, which prevents dengue fever, is available in some countries. Only those who have previously suffered dengue are advised to use it. If administered to someone without prior exposure, it may increase the risk of severe disease in the future. Hence, the vaccine is not suitable for widespread use.

Dengue and Its Complications

  • Dengue haemorrhagic fever: Low blood pressure, internal bleeding, and even organ failure can result from this serious illness..
  • Dengue shock syndrome: A life-threatening complication marked by a sudden drop in blood pressure due to fluid leakage from blood vessels, leading to inadequate oxygen supply to vital organs.

When to Seek Medical Help

Seek medical attention if:

  • After a few days, the symptoms continue or get worse.
  • Severe abdominal pain or continuous vomiting occurs.
  • Bleeding (nose, gums, or under the skin) or difficulty breathing develops.

Taking timely precautions and understanding the causes of dengue mosquito infestations can significantly reduce the risk of contracting this disease. Always consult a healthcare provider if you suspect dengue fever for accurate diagnosis and dengue treatment.

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  • High fever (often up to 40°C or 104°F)
  • Severe headache, especially behind the eyes
  • Pain in the muscles and joints (sometimes called "breakbone fever")
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Rash (which often appears 3-4 days after fever starts)
  • Fatigue and weakness (which can last for weeks)
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Mild bleeding (nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising)

In severe cases, Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS) can develop, leading to more serious complications like:

  • Severe bleeding
  • Plummeting blood pressure (shock)
  • Organ failure
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