Use this page to access key information about Dengue ( Dengue Fever )
- Find generic information about Dengue Fever – what it is and where it’s commonly found.
- Gleam more specific information about Dengue treatment with a full and comprehensive guide to the illness. Also find information in regards to Dengue Fever symptoms and warning signs.
- Find tips on Dengue Fever and if it can be prevented at all.
Dengue
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue is a viral disease carried by mosquitoes, usually Aedes species which live in urban areas and bite during the day. It is the number 2 mosquito-carried disease after malaria. There are 4 different viruses that cause dengue, conveniently named DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3 and DEN 4. Unfortunately, immunity against one does not protect against the others.
Dengue used to be rare, with its spread limited by the slow speed of sailing ships. But with mass air travel and urbanization, dengue has spread rapidly from the coast of Queensland, through Asia and Africa to Central and South America and even to the Southern USA. It is on the march and ever increasing numbers are becoming infected.
What does it do? (Dengue Fever Symptoms)
After 3 to 8 days those infected may develop fever headache and pain in muscles and bones, hence its old name of `break-bone fever’. A patient may then recover but fever and rash can recur. About 2% of people, more commonly children and perhaps those who have previously had a different dengue infection, will develop dengue hemorrhagic fever with bleeding from the gums and under the skin. This can lead to shock and death.
Where is it ?
Dengue is still mainly found in Southeast Asia and the western Pacific but cases now occur throughout the tropics and subtropics.
Can it be treated?
There is no Dengue treatment for the infection itself. Patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever need good supportive care on intensive care wards.
Can it be prevented?
General bite avoidance as with malaria can help reduce risk on infection. There is no vaccine against dengue although there are several projects to develop one.
Danger rating: 4/10
