What is Dengue?

What is Dengue?

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It occurs mostly in tropical and subtropical regions, especially during and after rainy seasons. Dengue can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), both of which can be life-threatening without proper care. There are four distinct strains (DENV-1 to DENV-4), and a person can be infected multiple times. Timely diagnosis and supportive treatment are key to managing dengue effectively. Prevention focuses heavily on mosquito control and avoiding bites through repellents and protective clothing. Public awareness and early medical intervention play a vital role in reducing the disease burden.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Common Symptoms:

Dengue symptoms typically begin 4–10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and last for about 7–10 days. Common symptoms include:

  • Sudden high fever (often up to 104°F or 40°C)
  • Severe headache, especially behind the eyes
  • Muscle, joint, and bone pain (known as “breakbone fever”)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Skin rash appearing a few days after fever
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Mild bleeding (nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising)

Warning signs:

Warning signs of severe dengue (usually after the fever subsides):

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Bleeding from nose or gums
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Rapid breathing
  • Restlessness or fatigue
  • Cold or clammy skin

Seek immediate medical attention if these warning signs appear.

Causes and Transmission

Dengue is caused by a virus that is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, especially during the early morning and before dusk. These mosquitoes:

  • Breed in stagnant water (e.g., plant pots, buckets, clogged drains)
  • Are active during daylight hours
  • Can transmit the virus to humans within a single bite

Once infected, a person cannot spread the virus directly to others, but a mosquito biting an infected person can transmit it to others, continuing the transmission cycle.

Risk Factors

People are at greater risk of contracting dengue if they:

  • Live or travel to areas with frequent dengue outbreaks
  • Have had a prior dengue infection (higher risk for severe form)
  • Reside in densely populated urban regions
  • Are exposed to mosquitoes due to open water sources
  • Lack mosquito preventive measures like nets or repellents
  • Are infants, elderly, or individuals with weak immune systems

During monsoon seasons, the risk significantly increases due to more breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis:

Doctors diagnose dengue through:

  • Clinical symptoms and travel history
  • Blood tests:
    • NS1 Antigen test (early detection)
    • IgM/IgG antibody tests
    • Complete blood count (CBC) to monitor platelet levels

Treatment:

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Supportive care is essential:

  • Adequate hydration with fluids and oral rehydration solutions
  • Fever management with paracetamol (avoid aspirin or ibuprofen)
  • Monitoring for warning signs of complications
  • Hospitalization in severe cases to manage bleeding, dehydration, or shock

Prompt medical care reduces the risk of complications and speeds recovery.

Prevention Tips

Preventing dengue focuses on mosquito control and avoiding bites:

  • Eliminate standing water around homes
  • Change water in flower vases and coolers frequently
  • Use mosquito repellents and wear long-sleeved clothing
  • Install window screens and use mosquito nets while sleeping
  • Keep surroundings clean and dispose of trash properly
  • Use larvicides or biological mosquito controls in water bodies
  • Government fogging and public health campaigns in high-risk areas
  • Currently, there is no widely available vaccine in many countries, so prevention remains the best defense.
  • Educate family members, especially children, about mosquito-bite prevention habits
  • Avoid outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (early morning and dusk)
  • Store water containers in a covered and hygienic manner to prevent mosquito breeding

Currently, there is no widely available vaccine in many countries, so prevention remains the best defense.

Recovery and Aftercare

Most people recover fully from dengue within 2–3 weeks with rest and fluids. During recovery:

  • Avoid strenuous activity for at least 1–2 weeks
  • Monitor platelet levels and signs of internal bleeding
  • Resume a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
  • Continue hydration to support the immune system
  • Attend follow-up appointments as advised

In severe cases, fatigue may persist longer. It’s essential to recover fully before returning to regular routine.