Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes species. When an individual is bitten by a mosquito carrying the dengue virus, they can become infected. These infected mosquitoes often breed in stagnant or contaminated water sources, such as puddles, potholes, or open containers. Therefore, it’s crucial to take precautions and follow safety guidelines to protect yourself from dengue infection. Measures such as eliminating standing water around your home, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and using mosquito nets can help reduce the risk of contracting dengue. Additionally, community efforts to control mosquito populations and raise awareness about dengue prevention are essential in combating the spread of this disease.
Dengue virus outbreaks are often fueled by insufficient mosquito control measures and exacerbated by climate change, which creates favorable conditions for mosquito breeding. The expansion of Aedes mosquito habitats, the primary vectors for dengue, due to climate shifts increases the risk of transmission in previously unaffected areas. Additionally, the presence of various dengue virus strains contributes to the risk of severe and recurrent infections, complicating disease management and control efforts. Understanding immune responses to dengue infection is vital for vaccine development and monitoring population-level risks.
Important signs of dengue:
Dengue presents with a range of symptoms, including high fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and skin rashes. It’s important to note that some individuals may not exhibit symptoms immediately after infection, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Dengue, often referred to as break-bone fever, can disrupt blood clotting mechanisms, leading to bleeding manifestations, although this is not always the case. Platelet count typically decreases until approximately the 7th day from the onset of illness and starts to rise again from Day 8.
- Severe Abdominal Pain: Serious abdominal pain, including sharp pain or cramps, may occur with dengue fever. This pain can sometimes be mistaken for other health issues, highlighting the importance of early medical consultation for dengue detection.
- Bleeding Symptoms: Dengue can lead to bleeding symptoms such as small reddish spots on the skin, nosebleeds, or gum bleeding. Unusual bleeding should prompt immediate medical attention to prevent complications.
- Recurring Headaches: Persistent headaches can be a symptom of dengue or other underlying causes. Consulting a doctor for appropriate tests is recommended if recurrent headaches occur.
- Ocular Pain: Excruciating pain behind the eyes, along with inflammation and redness, can indicate dengue fever. Seeking medical help promptly is essential in such cases.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swelling of lymph nodes is commonly observed in dengue patients.
- Fatigue: Prolonged fatigue and difficulty in performing daily activities may indicate dengue fever.
- Severe Abdominal Pain and Bloating: Along with pain, bloating can also be a sign of dengue virus, necessitating prompt attention and treatment.
- Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhoea: These gastrointestinal symptoms are warning signs of dengue fever and should be reported to a doctor.
- High Fever with Skin Bruising and Bleeding: Dengue fever often begins with a mild fever that can escalate to temperatures above 100.4°F. Skin bruising and the presence of blood in urine or stool may accompany the fever. Consulting a doctor and undergoing tests for dengue is crucial for confirmation.
- Body Pain: Dengue can cause severe muscle and joint pain, making movement difficult and impacting daily routines. It may feel like the entire body is aching or as if bones are being crushed due to sudden pain.
In severe cases of dengue, patients may experience a range of complications, including a drop in blood pressure, breathlessness, bleeding manifestations, and confusion. Antibodies produced during the infection can exacerbate platelet destruction, leading to a decrease in platelet count. Typically, fever subsides after 4 to 5 days, but platelet count continues to drop until around Day 7 or 8 from the onset of illness. Most dengue patients recover within one to two weeks, although severe cases may require hospitalization.
Adequate nutrition, including essential nutrients like B12, iron, folate, vitamins C and K, can aid in recovery, especially in individuals who are deficient in these nutrients. It’s crucial to seek medical help promptly if symptoms persist or worsen. Understanding the effects of dengue is essential for effective prevention and management, emphasizing the importance of early detection, supportive care, and addressing nutritional deficiencies to facilitate recovery and prevent complications.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
