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What You Need to Know About Dengue Fever

  • Writer: ZPMCI
    ZPMCI
  • Aug 13, 2024
  • 2 min read

Updated: Aug 21, 2024




Dengue fever is a viral illness spread by mosquitoes, mainly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It’s common in tropical and subtropical areas, and understanding it can help you stay safe.


What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually start 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite.


Symptoms

  • Mild Dengue Fever:

    • High fever

    • Severe headache

    • Pain behind the eyes

    • Joint and muscle pain

    • Nausea

    • Fatigue

    • Skin rash


  • Severe Dengue:

    • Persistent vomiting

    • Bleeding gums or nosebleeds

    • Blood in vomit or stool

    • Rapid breathing

    • Severe abdominal pain

    • Weak pulse and low blood pressure

    • Severe dehydration


Severe cases can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.


How is it Spread?

Dengue is spread by mosquitoes that bite people already infected with the virus. It is not spread directly from person to person.


Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose dengue through a combination of checking symptoms and running lab tests. Tests can detect the virus or antibodies produced in response to it.

Diagnosis involves checking symptoms and running lab tests. The Dengue Duo Test and NS1 Antigen Test are commonly used:

  • Dengue Duo Test: This test detects both the dengue virus (NS1 antigen) and antibodies (IgM and IgG) produced in response to the virus. It can identify the infection in its early stages and determine if the patient is currently infected or has had a past infection.

  • NS1 Antigen Test: This test specifically detects the NS1 protein of the dengue virus, which can be present in the blood during the early phase of the infection, usually within the first 5 days.


Treatment

There’s no specific medicine for dengue. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms:

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

  • Pain Relief: Use acetaminophen to manage fever and pain (avoid aspirin and ibuprofen).

  • Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body recover.

Severe cases may need hospital care for fluid and monitoring.


Prevention

To prevent dengue:

  • Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Remove standing water where mosquitoes breed.

  • Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply repellent with DEET or other recommended ingredients.

  • Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves and pants can help prevent mosquito bites.

  • Use Nets and Screens: Ensure homes are protected with nets and screens.

  • Community Action: Join local efforts to control mosquito populations.


Global Impact 

Dengue affects millions of people worldwide, especially in tropical areas. Researchers are working on better vaccines and treatments to fight dengue. Public awareness and community action are key to preventing and controlling the disease.


Understanding dengue fever and taking preventive measures can help protect yourself and others from this serious illness.



By: ZPMC Staff

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