All You Need to Know About Dengue Fever
With recent rainfall leading to a rise in dengue fever cases, particularly in Hyderabad, it’s crucial to stay informed. Here’s a quick guide
What is Dengue Fever?
A viral infection spread by mosquito bites, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions like India, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Central America.
What Causes Dengue Fever?
It is caused by one of four dengue virus strains: DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4.
Can You Get Dengue Twice?
Yes, it’s possible. Immunity from one serotype doesn’t protect against others. Second infections can lead to severe dengue.
How Does Dengue Spread?
Spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which bites mainly in the early morning and at dusk. The virus is not transmitted from human to human.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever and Warning Signs:
- Classic Symptoms: Fever, severe joint and muscle pain, pain behind the eyes, headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting.
- Warning Signs: Abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rash, mucosal bleeding, shortness of breath, increased hematocrit, and decreased platelet count.
Diagnosis
Confirmed through dengue serology tests (NS1, IgM, IgG antibodies), along with blood tests and imaging for complications.
Dengue Fever Treatment
No specific antiviral treatment. Symptomatic care includes:
- Paracetamol for fever and pain (avoid ibuprofen and aspirin)
- Hydration (3-4 liters of fluids daily)
- Rest
Prevention
- Eliminate Breeding Sites: Remove stagnant water, clean containers, and ensure regular fogging.
- Personal Protection: Wear protective clothing, use mosquito nets and repellents, and keep windows and doors closed.
Vaccine: The Dengvaxia vaccine is available in some countries for those aged 9-45 with prior dengue infection, but it’s not available in India.
Conclusion
Understanding dengue fever is key to reducing its impact. Follow prevention measures, stay informed, and take action to protect yourself and others
About Author
Dr. Y Swetha
MBBS ,MD General Medicine
Dr. Y Swetha is a skilled physician currently practicing at PI Health Cancer Hospital. She holds an MBBS from Kamineni Institute of Medical Sciences and an MD in General Medicine from Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences. Dr. Swetha has extensive experience in outpatient, inpatient, emergency, and critical care settings. She is proficient in managing chronic conditions, critical emergencies, and advanced procedures such as ventilator management and catheter placements. Her academic contributions include presentations on deep vein thrombosis, splenic infarcts, and cardiac tamponade. Dr. Swetha also volunteered as a Telemedicine Doctor during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating her commitment to patient care. With a First Class in MD and fluent in English, Telugu, and Hindi, Dr. Swetha is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive medical care.