Dengue Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention

Introduction to Dengue Disease

Dengue disease is a viral mosquito-borne illness that affects millions of people worldwide every year. It is especially common in tropical and subtropical regions, including South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Dengue can range from a mild fever to a severe and life-threatening condition, making it a major global public health concern.

What Causes Dengue Disease?

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which belongs to the Flaviviridae family. There are four different serotypes of the dengue virus:

• DENV-1

• DENV-2

• DENV-3

• DENV-4

Infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity against that specific type but not against the others. A second infection with a different serotype increases the risk of developing severe dengue.

Transmission of Dengue

How Dengue Spreads

Dengue is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito, mainly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.

Key Transmission Facts

• Mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water

• Biting occurs mostly during daytime

• Dengue does not spread directly from person to person

• Urban areas with poor sanitation are at higher risk

Risk Factors for Dengue Infection

• Stagnant water near homes

• Poor waste management

• Warm and humid climate

• Lack of mosquito control measures

• Overcrowded living conditions

Incubation Period of Dengue

The incubation period of dengue disease is typically 4 to 10 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

Symptoms of Dengue Disease

Early and Common Symptoms

• Sudden high fever

• Severe headache

• Pain behind the eyes

• Muscle, bone, and joint pain

• Extreme fatigue

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Skin rash appearing after a few days

Dengue is often referred to as “breakbone fever” due to intense body pain.

Severe Dengue Symptoms

Severe dengue, also known as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), is a medical emergency.

Warning Signs of Severe Dengue

• Severe abdominal pain

• Persistent vomiting

• Bleeding from nose or gums

• Blood in stool or vomit

• Difficulty breathing

• Cold or clammy skin

• Low blood pressure

• Organ failure

Complications of Dengue

• Severe bleeding

• Plasma leakage

• Low platelet count

• Shock

• Death (if untreated)

How Dengue Affects the Human Body

The dengue virus attacks white blood cells and blood vessels, causing:

• Decreased platelet count

• Increased blood vessel permeability

• Fluid leakage into tissues

• Increased risk of internal bleeding

Secondary infections often trigger a stronger immune response, leading to severe complications.

Diagnosis of Dengue Disease

Dengue is diagnosed through laboratory tests, including:

• NS1 antigen test

• Dengue antibody test (IgM, IgG)

• Complete blood count (CBC) showing low platelet levels

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications.

Treatment and Management of Dengue

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue disease.

Supportive Treatment Includes:

• Adequate oral and intravenous fluids

• Paracetamol for fever (avoid aspirin and ibuprofen)

• Bed rest

• Hospital care in severe cases

Early medical attention significantly reduces mortality.

Prevention and Control of Dengue

Personal Protection

• Use mosquito repellents

• Wear long-sleeved clothing

• Use mosquito nets and screens

Environmental Measures

• Eliminate stagnant water

• Cover water storage containers

• Proper garbage disposal

• Regular fumigation

Community-Level Prevention

• Public awareness campaigns

• Vector control programs

• Early outbreak reporting