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Learn everything about Dengue including its causes, transmission, symptoms, stages, diagnosis, treatment, prevention strategies, and global impact. This comprehensive guide is written in a clear, international standard for health awareness and education.
Introduction
Dengue is a mosquito borne viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide each year. It is caused by the dengue virus which is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Dengue is found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in urban and semi urban areas. In recent years, the number of dengue cases has increased significantly due to urbanization, climate change, and global travel, making it a major public health concern.
Causes and Transmission
Dengue is caused by the dengue virus which belongs to the Flaviviridae family. There are four distinct but closely related serotypes of the virus known as DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3, and DEN 4. Infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity against that particular type but only temporary immunity against the others. Subsequent infections with different serotypes increase the risk of developing severe dengue.
The virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of female Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are active during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon. The transmission cycle begins when a mosquito bites a person infected with the dengue virus. The virus then multiplies inside the mosquito and is transmitted to other humans through subsequent bites. Dengue cannot be transmitted directly from person to person except through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to child during pregnancy.
Symptoms of Dengue
Symptoms usually appear four to ten days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last for about a week. Dengue infection ranges from mild illness to severe disease.
Common symptoms include
• Sudden high fever
• Severe headache especially behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pain often described as bone breaking pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rashes that may appear two to five days after the onset of fever
• Fatigue and weakness
• Mild bleeding such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding
Severe dengue previously known as dengue hemorrhagic fever can cause serious complications such as plasma leakage, fluid accumulation, respiratory distress, severe bleeding, or organ impairment. Warning signs of severe dengue typically appear three to seven days after the first symptoms and may include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, fatigue, restlessness, and blood in vomit or stool. Prompt medical attention is essential to prevent life threatening complications.
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and surveillance. Dengue can be diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests.
Diagnostic methods include
• Physical examination to assess symptoms and warning signs
• Blood tests to detect the presence of the virus, antigens, or antibodies
• NS1 antigen test which can detect infection early in the disease
• PCR tests to identify viral RNA and determine the specific serotype
• IgM and IgG antibody tests to determine recent or past infections
Early diagnosis allows healthcare providers to monitor patients closely, manage symptoms effectively, and reduce the risk of complications.
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Key treatment measures include
• Adequate rest and hydration to replace fluids lost due to fever and vomiting
• Use of pain relievers such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain
• Avoiding non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin which can increase bleeding risk
• Close medical supervision especially for patients with warning signs of severe dengue
• Hospitalization may be required for severe cases to provide intravenous fluids, blood transfusions if necessary, and supportive care
Early medical intervention significantly improves outcomes and lowers the risk of severe disease and death.
Prevention and Control
Since there is no widely available cure for dengue, prevention remains the most effective strategy.
Preventive measures include
• Eliminating mosquito breeding sites such as stagnant water in containers, flower pots, old tires, and gutters
• Covering water storage containers and disposing of waste properly
• Using mosquito repellents, long sleeved clothing, and bed nets especially during the day
• Installing window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes
• Community wide mosquito control programs including larvicides and fogging during outbreaks
• Raising public awareness about dengue prevention and early symptom recognition
Some vaccines have been developed, and a few are approved for use in specific countries and populations. However, vaccination is not yet universally available and should be combined with vector control measures.
Global Impact of Dengue
Dengue is one of the fastest spreading mosquito borne diseases in the world. The World Health Organization estimates that about half of the global population is at risk of dengue infection. Each year, hundreds of millions of infections occur, with a significant proportion requiring hospitalization. Dengue causes substantial economic and health burdens, particularly in low and middle income countries where healthcare infrastructure may be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the incubation period of dengue
The incubation period is usually four to ten days after the bite of an infected mosquito.
Can dengue spread from person to person
No, dengue is not transmitted directly between humans except through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or from mother to child during pregnancy.
How can dengue be prevented at home
Prevent mosquito breeding by eliminating stagnant water, use mosquito repellents, wear protective clothing, and use bed nets during the day.
Is there a vaccine for dengue
Some vaccines exist and are approved in specific countries, but they are not universally available. Vaccination should be combined with preventive measures.
When should someone with dengue see a doctor
Medical attention should be sought immediately if there are warning signs such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, rapid breathing, or extreme fatigue.
Conclusion
Dengue remains a major global health challenge due to its widespread transmission, lack of specific treatment, and increasing incidence. Awareness of symptoms, early diagnosis, proper treatment, and preventive strategies are essential to control its impact. Governments, healthcare systems, and communities must work together to reduce mosquito populations, improve surveillance, and promote vaccination where available. Individual actions such as maintaining clean surroundings and seeking prompt medical care play a vital role in combating dengue.
Dr. Ahmed Ali Mollah
MBBS (DMC)FCGP (Medicine)C-Endos (Bardem)FRSH (London)
Gastroenterologist
19 Years of Experience Overall
BMDC Reg.: Coming Soon
ID: D30DB70
