#2024
Dengue Fever
Disease Description:
Dengue fever is a contagious disease caused by the dengue virus (Aedes aegypti). It spreads through the bite of a mosquito called Aedes. There are four distinct types of the A. aegypti virus, and infection from one type generally provides lifetime immunity against that particular strain, but only short-term immunity against others. If a mosquito carrying the dengue virus bites a person, the person may develop dengue fever within 4 to 6 days. Conversely, if a non-infected mosquito bites a dengue-infected person, the mosquito can become a carrier of the virus, continuing the spread from person to person. Dengue fever outbreaks are most common during the months of May to September, especially in hot and rainy seasons. However, it is rare in winter.
Causes:
Dengue fever is caused by the bite of an Aedes mosquito, which usually bites during the day. Cc
Classification:
Dengue can be of two types:
Classical dengue fever.
Hemorrhagic dengue fever.
Symptoms & Signs:
Classical Dengue Fever:
High fever with chills, with temperatures ranging from 103°F to 105°F.
Severe headache.
Intense muscle and joint pain.
Sore throat.
Loss of appetite.
Nausea or vomiting.
Skin rash (red bumps) appearing 3-4 days after fever onset.
Hemorrhagic Dengue Fever:
This is a severe form of dengue. Blood clots under the skin, and bleeding may occur in various organs such as the stomach and intestines, which can be fatal.
Fever may rise to 106°F.
High fever with chills.
Severe headache.
Intense muscle and joint pain.
Sore throat.
Loss of appetite.
Vomiting blood.
Rash (red spots) on the skin.
Nosebleeds.
Bleeding from the gums.
Blood in stool.
Blood in urine.
Weakness.
Low blood pressure.
Swollen lymph nodes.
Red eyes.
Increased pulse rate.
Cold hands and feet.
Severe abdominal pain.
The patient may lose consciousness.
Complications:
Pneumonia.
Impaired bone marrow function.
Eye inflammation.
Inflammation of the testes.
Inflammation of the ovaries.
Shock.
Hemorrhaging.
Anemia.
Prevention:
The key to preventing dengue fever is controlling the spread of Aedes mosquitoes and preventing their bites. These mosquitoes breed in clear, still water. They do not prefer dirty or polluted water, so areas that can hold clear water must be kept clean, and mosquito eradication measures should be taken.
Keep your surroundings clean, especially removing water from areas like flower pots, unused containers, coconut shells, discarded tires, etc.
Do not allow water to collect for more than five days in any location, such as bathrooms, aquariums, or under air conditioners or refrigerators.
Wear long-sleeved clothing during the day, as Aedes mosquitoes mainly bite in the early morning and evening.
Use mosquito repellents and install nets on windows and doors.
Use mosquito nets while sleeping, both during the day and night.
Ensure children wear long-sleeved clothing when going to school.
Use mosquito sprays, coils, or mats, and ensure that dengue-infected individuals are kept under mosquito nets to prevent further spread.
Laboratory Tests:
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) and platelet test should be done after 4 to 5 days of fever onset. Testing before this may not detect the dengue virus. If the platelet count drops below 100,000, dengue virus infection should be suspected, and further steps should be taken. Dengue antibody testing can be done 5 to 6 days after symptoms appear for confirmation, though it is not necessary for treatment.
Treatment:
Most dengue fever patients recover on their own within 5 to 10 days, even without treatment. However, it is crucial to follow medical advice to avoid severe complications. Dengue treatment is largely symptomatic.
Rest is essential until full recovery.
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and coconut water.
If unable to eat or drink, intravenous saline may be necessary.
Paracetamol is usually sufficient to lower fever. Aspirin or diclofenac should be avoided as they increase the risk of bleeding.
Use wet cloths to reduce body temperature.
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