Dengue Fever: Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment
Introduction to Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes a severe flu-like illness and, in extreme cases, can develop into potentially lethal complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. It is a significant public health threat, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 390 million dengue infections occur globally each year.
This article explores the causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dengue fever with a focus on raising awareness and providing accurate, actionable information. Whether you’re a health-conscious individual, a traveler to dengue-prone areas, or a medical professional, understanding dengue is crucial for timely detection and care.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquito. There are four distinct but closely related viruses that cause dengue: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Infection with one type provides lifelong immunity to that type but not to the others.
In some cases, a secondary infection with a different strain may result in severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), both of which can be fatal.
Causes of Dengue Fever
1. Dengue Virus Transmission
The dengue virus is primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, especially:
Aedes aegypti
Aedes albopictus
These mosquitoes are active during early morning and late afternoon, making those times particularly risky for exposure.
2. Human-to-Mosquito-to-Human Cycle
When a mosquito bites a person already infected with the dengue virus, it becomes a carrier of the virus after 8–12 days. The mosquito then spreads the virus to other humans through bites.
3. Environmental Factors
• Stagnant water in containers, flower pots, and discarded tires serve as mosquito breeding grounds.
• Urbanization, climate change, and poor waste management also contribute to mosquito proliferation.
Signs and Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Dengue symptoms generally appear 4–10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The illness has three phases: febrile, critical, and recovery.
1. Early Signs and Symptoms (Febrile Phase)
• Sudden high fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
• Severe headaches (especially behind the eyes)
• Pain in muscles and joints (hence called “breakbone fever”)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rashes
• Fatigue and weakness
• Mild bleeding (e.g., nose or gums, or easy bruising)
2. Severe Dengue Symptoms (Critical Phase)
• Abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bleeding gums or nose
• Blood in vomit or stool
Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
• Cold or clammy skin
• Restlessness or irritability
Drop in platelet counts
If left untreated, severe dengue can result in organ failure, internal bleeding, shock, and even death.
Diagnosis of Dengue Fever
Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective management of dengue fever.
1. Medical History and Physical Examination
Doctors assess symptoms, travel history to dengue-prone areas, and visible signs such as rashes and bleeding.
2. Laboratory Tests
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Monitors platelet and white blood cell levels.
• NS1 Antigen Test: Detects dengue virus during the early stages.
• IgM and IgG Antibody Tests: Determines current or past dengue infection.
• RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction): Confirms dengue virus type.
Prevention of Dengue Fever
Since there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, prevention is the most effective strategy.
1. Avoid Mosquito Bites
• Use mosquito repellents (DEET-based or natural).
• Wear long-sleeved clothing, pants, and socks.
• Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets.
• Keep windows and doors screened or shut.
2. Eliminate Breeding Sites
• Remove standing water from flower pots, tires, and water containers.
• Clean and scrub water storage containers weekly.
• Cover tanks and cisterns tightly.
3. Community Participation
• Engage in neighborhood cleanup drives.
• Educate the public through awareness programs.
• Local authorities should conduct fogging and insecticide spraying in high-risk zones.
4. Vaccination
• The Dengvaxia vaccine (CYD-TDV) is licensed in some countries for individuals aged 9–45 years with prior dengue infection.
• WHO recommends careful pre-vaccination screening to avoid increased risk in dengue-naïve individuals.
Treatment of Dengue Fever
There is no specific antiviral drug for dengue, but supportive care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
1. Home Care for Mild Cases
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids like water, coconut water, ORS, and soups.
• Fever control: Use paracetamol (acetaminophen) to reduce fever and pain. Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can increase bleeding risk.
• Rest: Adequate rest is essential for recovery.
2. Hospital Care for Severe Cases
• Patients showing signs of severe dengue may require:
• IV fluids and electrolyte replacement
• Platelet transfusions (if platelet count drops dangerously low)
• Oxygen therapy and close monitoring in an ICU
• Early detection and supportive care reduce the risk of complications and fatalities.
Complications of Dengue Fever
• If untreated or mismanaged, dengue fever can result in life-threatening complications:
• Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF): Causes bleeding, low platelet count, and blood plasma leakage.
• Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS): Leads to dangerously low blood pressure.
Liver and kidney failure
• Neurological disorders: Seizures or encephalitis (in rare cases)
Recovery and Aftercare
1. Duration of Illness
Recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks, although weakness and fatigue can persist longer.
2. Diet for Recovery
• Hydrating fluids: Coconut water, fresh juices, and soups
• Iron-rich foods: Spinach, pomegranate, beetroot
• Protein-rich foods: Eggs, pulses, chicken, fish
• Vitamin C: Oranges, kiwi, guava (helps in platelet production)
3. Monitor Symptoms
• Keep an eye on:
• Bleeding
• Drop in urine output
Fatigue
• High fever that returns after initial subsiding
• Dengue Fever in Children and Pregnant Women
1. In Children
Children often show milder symptoms but may develop severe dengue quickly. Immediate medical attention is crucial if symptoms escalate.
2. In Pregnant Women
• Dengue during pregnancy can cause premature labor, low birth weight, or stillbirth.
• Proper hydration and hospital monitoring are essential.
Global Impact and Risk Areas
• Dengue is endemic in more than 100 countries, especially:
• South and Southeast Asia
• Central and South America
• Sub-Saharan Africa
Pacific Islands
• Parts of the Caribbean
• Travelers to these regions should take special precautions.
FAQs About Dengue Fever
Q1: Can you get dengue more than once?
Yes. There are four strains of the virus, and infection with one type doesn’t protect against the others. Secondary infections increase the risk of severe dengue.
Q2: Is dengue contagious from person to person?
No. Dengue spreads through mosquito bites, not through direct person-to-person contact.
Q3: When should I go to the hospital for dengue?
If you experience persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or signs of shock, seek emergency care immediately.
Q4: Can dengue fever be cured completely?
There is no specific cure, but with supportive care, most patients recover completely.
Q5: What foods help increase platelet count during dengue?
Foods like papaya leaf juice, pomegranate, beetroot, and milk are traditionally recommended, although clinical evidence is limited.
Conclusion
Dengue fever remains a major global health concern, particularly in regions with warm climates and poor sanitation. With no specific cure, prevention through mosquito control and public awareness is the best defense.
Early diagnosis and timely supportive care can significantly reduce complications. Public participation, improved hygiene, and responsible healthcare practices play an essential role in curbing dengue outbreaks.
Stay safe by protecting yourself and your community — because dengue prevention is in your hands.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)