Understanding Dengue Fever

What is Dengue?

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection transmitted by female Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. It causes a severe flu-like illness and can sometimes lead to serious complications.

Key Symptoms

• High fever (40°C/104°F)
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Rash

Warning Signs

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bleeding gums or nose
• Blood in vomit
• Rapid breathing
• Fatigue/restlessness

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

1. Physical examination
2. Blood tests
3. Assessment of symptoms

Treatment

• No specific antiviral treatment exists
• Management focuses on symptom relief:
  • Rest
  • Adequate hydration
  • Pain relievers (avoid aspirin)
  • Close medical monitoring

Prevention

Personal Protection

• Use mosquito repellents
• Wear long-sleeved clothing
• Install screens on windows
• Use bed nets

Environmental Control

• Eliminate standing water
• Cover water containers
• Clean gutters regularly
• Maintain yard cleanliness

Risk Factors

• Living in tropical regions
• Previous dengue infection
• Time of day (dawn and dusk)
• Rainy season

Recovery

Recovery typically takes 2-7 days. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions and maintain adequate rest and hydration during recovery.