What is Dengue?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that has rapidly spread in all regions of WHO in recent years. The virus responsible for causing dengue is called Dengue Virus (DENV). There are four DENV serotypes, meaning that it is possible to be infected four times. Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Latin America have experienced the most significant outbreaks in recent history.
How is Dengue Transmitted?
This illness is primarily transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes also transmit chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika infection, further emphasizing the dangers they pose.
Symptoms of Dengue
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Joint and muscle pain
- Rash
- Mild bleeding (such as nose or gum bleed)
These symptoms typically appear four to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last for two to seven days.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing dengue involves recognizing its symptoms and can be confirmed through specific blood tests. There is no specific treatment for dengue. Patients should seek medical advice, rest, and drink plenty of fluids. Pain relievers like acetaminophen can alleviate symptoms, but medications that increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin, should be avoided.
Prevention and Control
Prevention is key as there is no vaccine widely available for dengue fever. Protection measures include:
- Using mosquito repellents
- Wearing protective clothing
- Utilizing mosquito nets while sleeping
- Eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed
Community efforts to control mosquito populations can significantly reduce the transmission of dengue.
Impact of Dengue
Dengue places a significant burden on healthcare systems, especially during outbreaks, straining resources with the high number of patients requiring care. On the economic front, dengue outbreaks can result in substantial costs associated with medical treatment and loss of productivity. The social impact includes increased disease fear and altered daily living patterns during outbreaks.
Conclusion
Understanding what is dengue and how it spreads is crucial for implementing effective prevention and control measures. Public awareness, combined with proactive efforts in mosquito control and personal protection, can reduce the impact of dengue fever in affected regions.
