Dengue Fever

Description

Dengue fever is a viral illness caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. Symptoms typically appear 4 to 10 days after infection and can include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening.

Prevention

1. Mosquito Control

• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed by regularly emptying containers, cleaning gutters, and covering water storage.

2. Use Mosquito Repellents

• Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, preferably treated with permethrin, to reduce mosquito bites.

4. Install Screens

• Use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of living spaces.

5. Community Awareness

• Educate communities about dengue prevention and the importance of reporting mosquito breeding sites.

6. Vaccination

• Consider vaccination with the dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia) for individuals living in endemic areas who have had prior dengue virus infection.

By following these preventive measures, the risk of dengue fever transmission can be significantly reduced.