Dengue fever is an acute
infectious viral disease, caused by all four types of dengue
virus 1, 2, 3 and 4. It is transmitted by the bite of
mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes aegypti found in
tropical and subtropical regions.
What are its symptoms?
Fever, with a sudden onset, often rising
to 40-40.5 degrees centigrade.
Rash, which shows up 3-4 days after the
start of the symptoms, starting from the trunk region and
spreading to the face, arms and legs.
Muscle aches (myalgia).
Joint aches (arthralgia).
Headache.
Dengue haemorrhagic fever symptoms
This is a rare complication of dengue in Australia. More
commonly seen in children aged under 15 years, but can occur
in adults. Symptoms include:
• same signs as dengue fever
• 2-5 days after onset of fever, rapid deterioration and
cardiovascular disease
• perhaps shock and sometimes death.
How is the condition diagnosed?
Total white blood cells count: In case of
dengue, this test will reveal less than normal number of
leukocytes (4000-10,000/cm) or white blood cells in the
blood.
Thrombocytopoenia: Total platelets count
in the blood may be very low in dengue fever.
Serum tests measure the antibody produced
against dengue virus.
Who are at risk of developing
the disease?
Dengue has become the most
notable mosquito-borne disease of the 1990s. Each year tens
of millions of people are affected by the disease. About 2.5
billion people live in areas that are at risk of an epidemic
transmission.
The highest incidence of dengue is in Southeast Asia, India
and the American tropics where Aedes aegypti can be
found. Outbreaks are more common in tropical countries.
Factors like overcrowding, open water storage and irrigation
canals provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
What is the treatment?
Treatment is only supportive in
case of dengue fever, which means rest, plenty of fluids to keep the temperature down.
Hospitalisation may be required in severe cases to monitor
the platelet count. If platelet count falls below a critical
level (40,000/cm), it may be necessary to transfuse fresh
blood or platelet rich plasma (PRP).
How can dengue be prevented?
Personal protection against
mosquito bites should be done by using mosquito repellents,
netting and wearing clothes that cover the body while going
out. Care should be taken to see that there are no
stagnating water bodies around the living areas and the
surroundings are kept clean.
Mosquito Bite
Dengue Fever
Dengue prevention
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