Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Recognizing the early signs of dengue is critical for timely treatment and prevention of severe complications.
This article outlines the warning signs and essential preventive measures against dengue fever. It’s always better to get checked up at the St. Joseph Hospital if you notice any of the following signs.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. It presents with flu-like symptoms that can progress to severe dengue, potentially life-threatening.
Transmission and Risks
The primary transmission is through the bite of an infected mosquito, mainly the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus species, which are most active during daylight hours.
High Fever and Clinical Features
A high fever accompanied by two or more of the following clinical features in someone who lives in or traveled to a dengue-endemic area: nausea, vomiting, rash, aches, and pains (headache, eye pain, muscle pain, and joint pain), positive tourniquet test, and leukopenia.
Critical Warning Signs
According to the CDC, severe dengue is indicated by abdominal pain or tenderness, persistent vomiting, clinical signs of fluid accumulation, mucosal bleeding, lethargy or restlessness, liver enlargement greater than 2 cm, and laboratory findings of increasing hematocrit (HCT) concurrent with a rapid decrease in platelet count.
Mosquito Bite Avoidance Using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and staying in places with air conditioning or window and door screens can significantly reduce mosquito bites.
Environmental Management Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by disposing of standing water in containers, buckets, pots, and saucers.
Immediate medical care should be sought if any of the warning signs appear, especially after visiting dengue-prone areas. Early detection and access to proper medical care can greatly reduce the risks of severe dengue.
Awareness and understanding of the warning signs of dengue fever, as outlined, are crucial in preventing the disease from advancing to severe stages.
By taking preventive measures against mosquito bites and seeking timely medical help when symptoms arise, the impact of dengue can be significantly minimized.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue Fever is a viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes, characterized by fever, rash, and muscle and joint pain.
How can Dengue Fever be prevented?
Prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.
What are the CDC-defined warning signs of Dengue Fever?
Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, and signs of bleeding, among others.
Can Dengue Fever be fatal?
Yes, especially if it progresses to severe dengue, which can be life-threatening without proper treatment.
How long does it take to recover from Dengue Fever?
Recovery time varies but generally, symptoms improve within a week. However, it can take several weeks to feel fully normal again.
