What is Dengue Fever?

What is dengue fever?. Infected mosquitoes spread the virus that causes dengue fever, which is prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas. It is known as “breakbone fever” because it can induce flu-like symptoms such a high temperature, headache, and excruciating muscle and joint pain, although most cases are mild and go away in a week or two. Less frequently, it might progress to severe dengue, a medical emergency that can result in fatalities, severe bleeding, and organ failure.

WHAT IS DENGUE FEVER?

A major public health concern is dengue fever, especially in areas where the Aedes mosquito is prevalent. People can lower their chance of infection and help control and ultimately eradicate this crippling disease by being aware of the symptoms, ways it is spread, and preventive measures. In the battle against dengue, community involvement and public health campaigns are essential.

Transmission;

WHAT IS DENGUE FEVER?

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which has four distinct serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4). When an Aedes mosquito bites an infected person, it becomes a carrier of the virus. The mosquito can then transmit the virus to other humans through subsequent bites. The Aedes mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, increasing the risk of transmission during these periods.

Symptoms;

WHAT IS DENGUE FEVER?

Symptoms of dengue fever typically appear 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. They include:

– High fever
– Severe headache
– Pain behind the eyes
– Joint and muscle pain
– Rash
– Nausea and vomiting
– Mild bleeding (such as nose or gum bleeding)

In some cases, the disease can progress to severe dengue (also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever), which can cause severe bleeding, organ failure, and even death if not treated promptly.

Prevention;

WHAT IS DENGUE FEVER?

Preventing dengue virus primarily involves avoiding mosquito bites and reducing mosquito habitats. Here are some effective measures:

– Use Insect Repellents: Apply repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.

– Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito activity times.

– Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so regularly empty and clean containers that hold water, such as flower pots, buckets, and birdbaths.

– Use Mosquito Nets: Sleep under mosquito nets, especially in areas with high dengue transmission rates.

– Install Screens: Ensure that windows and doors have screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering indoor spaces.

Dengue fever Treatment;

There is no specific antiviral treatment for it. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the patient’s overall health. Key treatment measures include:

– Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by fever and vomiting.

– Pain Relief: Using pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) to reduce fever and alleviate pain. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

– Medical Care: Severe cases of dengue require hospitalization and intensive medical care to manage complications such as severe bleeding and organ failure.

Summary

The focus of care is on symptom management, even though there is no particular antiviral medication. Severe instances can result in life-threatening consequences include shock or hemorrhagic fever. Since there is no one-size-fits-all vaccination for every strain of the virus, prevention entails controlling mosquitoes.