Dengue

What is dengue fever?

    Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The disease is caused by the bite of an Aedes mosquito infected with the dengue virus. Mild cases of dengue fever typically present with high fever and flu-like symptoms. However, the severe form, known as dengue haemorrhagic fever, can lead to severe bleeding, a sudden drop in blood pressure (shock), and can be fatal. Mosquitoes become carriers of the virus after biting an infected person. While dengue cannot be transmitted directly from person to person, it can be passed from a pregnant person to their child.

What causes dengue fever?

    Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. The infection cycle begins when a mosquito bites someone already infected with the dengue virus, allowing the mosquito to become a carrier. After an incubation period of 8-12 days within the mosquito, the virus can be transmitted to another person through subsequent bites. Dengue fever does not spread directly from person to person; it requires mosquito vectors for transmission. Although rare, the virus can also be passed from a pregnant person to their foetus. Preventative measures such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed are crucial in reducing the risk of dengue fever.

What are the symptoms of dengue fever?

    Many people with dengue infection experience no signs or symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they often resemble those of other illnesses, such as the flu, and typically begin four to ten days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

    Dengue fever can cause a high fever of 104°F (40°C) along with symptoms such as:

  • Headache
  • Muscle, bone, or joint pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pain behind the eyes
  • Swollen glands
  • Rash.

    Most individuals recover within a week, but in some cases, symptoms can worsen and become life-threatening, leading to severe dengue, also known as dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

    Severe dengue occurs when blood vessels become damaged and leaky, and the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in the bloodstream decreases. This can result in shock, internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death. Warning signs of severe dengue, a life-threatening emergency can develop quickly and usually begin within the first day or two after the fever subsides. These signs include:

  • Severe stomach pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Bleeding from gums or nose
  • Blood in urine, stools, or vomit
  • Bleeding under the skin that may appear as bruising
  • Difficulty or rapid breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability or restlessness

When to call a doctor

    You should call a doctor if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of dengue fever, particularly if they worsen or if any warning signs of severe dengue appear.

Enquiry Form

FAQS

mobile app

Locations

Loading...

phone