DENGUE FEVER

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which belongs to the Flaviviridae family. It is transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. Dengue fever is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and parts of Africa.
The disease manifests in a spectrum of severity, ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to severe forms such as dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can be life-threatening. The severity often depends on various factors, including the individual's immune status and previous exposure to different serotypes of the virus.
Symptoms of dengue fever typically appear 4-10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and may include:

• High Fever:

Sudden onset of high fever, often reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher.

• Severe Headaches:

Intense headaches, often described as behind the eyes.

• Painful Joints and Muscles:

Severe joint and muscle pain, also known as "breakbone fever."

• Retro-Orbital Pain:

Pain behind the eyes, exacerbated by eye movement.

• Skin Rash:

Characteristic rash that may appear a few days after the onset of fever.

• Mild Bleeding:

Such as nosebleeds, gums bleeding, or easy bruising

In severe cases (DHF/DSS), symptoms can escalate rapidly, leading to:

• Severe Abdominal Pain:

Due to enlarged liver.

• Persistent Vomiting:

Often accompanied by significant fluid loss.

• Bleeding:

Including internal bleeding, which can lead to shock and organ failure.

Diagnosis of dengue fever is usually confirmed through laboratory tests, including detection of the virus or antibodies in blood samples. Early detection is crucial to initiate appropriate management and prevent complications.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management primarily focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms, maintain fluid balance, and monitor for signs of complications. Rest, adequate hydration, and pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) are commonly recommended. However, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided due to the risk of bleeding complications.
Preventing dengue fever revolves around vector control measures to reduce mosquito populations and personal protection against mosquito bites. This includes using mosquito repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito nets, and ensuring that stagnant water where mosquitoes breed is eliminated or treated.
Efforts to develop a dengue vaccine have been ongoing, with several vaccines now available in some regions for prevention, though their efficacy varies by serotype and population.
In conclusion, dengue fever remains a significant public health concern, especially in regions where the Aedes mosquito thrives. Awareness, early detection, and preventive measures are essential in controlling outbreaks and reducing the burden of this potentially severe disease.