Facts of Dengue

What is dengue?

In general Dengue [DEN-ghee] is a flu-like viral disease spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe, often fatal, complication of dengue.

And scientific definition of Dengue fever is, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is sensitive febrile diseases, found in the tropics, with a geographical spread similar to malaria. Caused by one of four closely related virus serotypes of the genus Flavivirus, family Flaviviridae, each serotype is sufficiently different that there is no cross-protection and epidemics caused by multiple serotypes (hyperendemicity) can occur. Dengue is transmitted to humans by the mosquito Aedes aegypti (rarely Aedes albopictus).

History of Dengue Fever

The term "dengue" is a Spanish attempt at the Swahili phrase "ki denga pepo", meaning "cramp-like seizure caused by an evil spirit". It emerged during a Caribbean outbreak in 1827-1828.outbreaks resembling dengue fever have been reported throughout history. The first case report dates back from 1789 and is attributed to Benjamin Rush, who coined the term "breakbone fever" because of the symptoms of myalgia and arthralgia.

Symptoms of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

This infectious disease is manifested by a sudden onset of fever, with severe headache, muscle and joint pains and rashes; the dengue rash is characteristically bright red petechia and usually appears first on the lower limbs and the chest - in some patients, it spreads to cover most of the body. There may also be gastritis with some combination of associated abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Some cases develop much milder symptoms, which can, when no rash is present, be misdiagnosed as flu or other viral infection.

The classic dengue fever lasts about six to seven days, with a smaller peak of fever at the trailing end of the fever (the so-called "biphasic pattern"). Clinically, the platelet count will drop until the patient's temperature is normal.

Prevention of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Primary prevention of dengue mainly resides in eliminating or reducing the mosquito vector for dengue. Public spraying for mosquitoes is the most important aspect of this vector. Application of larvicides such as Abate® to standing water is more effective in the long term control of mosquitoes. Initiatives to eradicate pools of standing water (such as in flowerpots) have proven useful in controlling mosquito borne diseases.Personal prevention consists of the use of mosquito nets, repellents, cover exposed skin, use DEET-impregnated bednets, and avoiding endemic areas. This is also important for malaria prevention. Dengue is diagnosed by a blood test.

Treatment for Dengue Fever

There is no specific treatment for dengue. Persons with dengue fever should rest and drink plenty of fluids. They should be kept away from mosquitoes for the protection of others. And the mainstay of treatment is supportive therapy for the dengue fever. The patient is encouraged to keep up oral intake, especially of oral fluids. If the patient is unable to maintain oral intake, supplementation with intravenous fluids may be necessary to prevent dehydration and significant hemoconcentration. A platelet transfusion is rarely indicated if the platelet level drops significantly or if there is significant bleeding.

Source: Medical Health Care Information