What is dengue fever and how to prevent it?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 35-year-old female. I live in an area where dengue fever is prevalent, and I am concerned about its risks and prevention. Can you provide information on what dengue fever is, its symptoms, and how it is transmitted? I would also like to know about preventive measures, such as mosquito control and personal protection strategies, and when it is important to seek medical attention if I suspect I have dengue fever.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went though your query.

The dengue cycle involves humans and mosquitos. Infection with one virus gives immunity to that serotype only. Dengue is mainly spread by Aedes egyptii. It is caused by domestic day-biting mosquitoes who prefer to feed on humans. The mosquito usually breeds in stored water. It has a short flight range. It may bite several people in the same household.

The incubation period is two to seven days. There is a sudden rise in fever. Other nonspecific constitutional symptoms include severe muscle aches, retro-orbital pain, hepatomegaly, rash, facial flush, and high fever. It usually subsides in two to seven days.

You should use antimosquito measures to prevent dengue.

1. Avoid open stagnant water in and around the home.

2. Use bed nets.

3. Wear long-sleeved clothing.

4. Use in-house spraying repellants and pediatric dengue vaccine.

The following tests should be carried out.

1. Complete blood count (CB) to detect thrombocytopenia.

2. Dengue profile for dengue virus (rRT-PCR or NS1) and IgM.

There is no specific treatment for dengue. The focus is on treating pain symptoms.

If platelet count is very low, platelet transfusion and intravenous fluids should be given.

Hope it helps.

Thanks and regards.