Dengue Fever
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes mosquito.
Transmission of Dengue Fever
- Dengue virus is transmitted when a female Aedes mosquito bites an infected person and then subsequently bites an uninfected individual, transmitting the virus into their bloodstream.
- The virus cannot be transmitted directly from person to person.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever
- High fever (up to 40°C)
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Joint and muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rash
- Mild bleeding (e.g., nose or gums)
It is advisable to seek medical help immediately if you experience any signs or symptoms.
Treatment of Dengue Fever
There is no specific medicine to treat patients with Dengue Fever. Therefore, it is important to follow preventive measures.
When dealing with Dengue Fever, it is important to:
- Get some rest
- Increase fluid intake
- Take pain relievers
- Avoid blood thinners such as aspirin
- Avoid exposure to mosquito bites to prevent the spread of the disease
Risk Factors of Dengue Fever
- Dengue Fever can affect anyone.
- People at higher risk of developing severe dengue fever symptoms are:
- People who had previous infection with dengue fever
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Pregnant women
- Infants
Prevention of Dengue Fever
- Getting rid of mosquito gathering places, such as water basins, whether inside or outside the house.
- Covering, emptying and cleaning all water tanks and basins, including water from household vases weekly.
- Using insect repellent skin creams inside and outside the house.
- Covering the body with long-sleeved clothes.
- Checking the safety of window grilles and that they are free of holes that might allow insects to enter.
- Using insecticides when the disease spreads.