Dengue fever, often referred to as 'breakbone fever,' is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. This illness is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including parts of India. The National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control reports that India has had more than 32,000 dengue cases in 2024 and is still counting.
While most cases result in mild symptoms, dengue can sometimes develop into a severe, life-threatening condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the details of dengue fever, covering its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment.
Causes and Transmission of Dengue
Dengue fever is caused by any one of the four closely related dengue viruses (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4). These viruses are primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically breed in stagnant water, such as in flower pots, tires, or open containers and are most active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
After feeding on an infected person, the virus replicates within the mosquito and is then transmitted to another person when the mosquito bites again. While Aedes aegypti is the primary vector, other Aedes species, like Aedes albopictus, can also transmit the virus, although less efficiently.
It is important to note that dengue fever cannot be spread directly from person to person and always requires the mosquito as a vector for transmission.
Dengue Symptoms
A person with dengue shows the following symptoms:
- High fever (often exceeding 104°F or 40°C)
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pain (hence the name 'breakbone fever')
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rash
- Mild bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding)
Severe Dengue (Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever)
While most dengue cases are mild and resolve within a week or two, a small percentage can progress to a severe and potentially life-threatening condition known as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS).
The complications typically occur when a person is infected with a different dengue virus strain for the second time. The symptoms arising due to severe dengue are:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from the nose, gums, or under the skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue and restlessness
- Liver enlargement
Here, it is important to note that early recognition and prompt medical attention are crucial in managing DHF, as it can rapidly deteriorate and lead to organ failure or even death.
How to Prevent Dengue
In the monsoon season and the post-monsoon period, the risk of dengue transmission increases significantly. While the risk is real, there is a lot you can do to protect yourself. Some of the effective ways to prevent the disease is to avoid mosquito bites. You can ensure this by:
- Using an insect repellent containing effective ingredients.
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants, especially during the day.
- Staying in well-screened or air-conditioned areas.
- Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by removing stagnant water around your home.
Treatment of Dengue Fever
Currently, there is no specific antiviral medication for dengue fever. So, you may not be prescribed any medicine and asked to mainly focus on managing the symptoms and complications arising from it. It includes:
- Rest
- Plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Pain relievers like acetaminophen (avoid aspirin or ibuprofen as they can increase the risk of bleeding)
- For severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for close monitoring and supportive care, which may include intravenous fluids and blood transfusions.
In Conclusion
Dengue fever can pose a serious health risk, but understanding its causes, symptoms, and preventive measures can significantly reduce your chances of contracting the illness. If you suspect you have dengue, seek medical attention promptly. Remember, prevention is key, so take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites.
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Sources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue
https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/index.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dengue-fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20353078
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