Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus, which is primarily transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. This mosquito is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Dengue infection can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from mild fever to more severe and potentially life-threatening conditions.
The dengue virus belongs to the Flaviviridae family and has four distinct serotypes: DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4. Once a person is infected with one serotype, they gain lifelong immunity to that specific serotype but remain susceptible to infection by the other serotypes. In some cases, a subsequent infection with a different serotype can lead to more severe symptoms due to a phenomenon called antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE).
Symptoms
The symptoms of dengue can vary from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can develop into a more serious condition known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be similar to those of other viral illnesses, such as the flu. However, in some cases, dengue fever can progress to more severe forms, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS).
- Severe Abdominal Pain: Intense abdominal pain or tenderness.
- Persistent Vomiting: Repeated vomiting.
- Bleeding: Severe bleeding, such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or internal bleeding.
- Fluid Accumulation: Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and lungs, leading to difficulty breathing.
- Weak Pulse: Rapid and weak pulse.
- Cold, Clammy Skin: Cold and clammy skin, indicating shock.
- Dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome are medical emergencies and require immediate medical attention.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms consistent with dengue fever, it’s important to seek medical care. In areas where dengue is prevalent, early diagnosis and proper medical management are crucial for a favourable outcome. To prevent dengue, it’s important to take measures to reduce mosquito exposure, such as using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites around your living area.
Prevention
Preventing dengue involves controlling mosquito populations and reducing mosquito-human contact. This can be done by eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and using bed nets. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, so management primarily involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
It’s important to note that dengue is a significant public health concern in many parts of the world, particularly in regions with a tropical or subtropical climate. Traveler’s to these areas should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and be aware of the symptoms of dengue in case they develop after returning from a trip.
Dengue Vaccine
Why Singapore’s dengue fight differs from that in some countries?
Singapore’s application of Wolbachia technology to counter dengue sets it apart from neighbouring countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. On the contrary, approximately twelve nations are adopting an alternative strategy known as the replacement approach. This technique involves releasing male and female mosquitoes carrying Wolbachia to breed with wild mosquitoes, resulting in the proliferation of offspring that carry Wolbachia.
