Chikungunya was the disease to fear last year, and dengue is expected to have an even greater impact this year, according to various agencies.
Dengue is a self-limiting viral disease, more specifically a type of viral hemorrhagic (can induce bleeding) fever.
Dengue fever is caused by dengue virus, the most common mosquito-borne disease in our country. It is important to distinguish dengue fever from other viral fevers as there might be severe implications.
Also Read- Dengue strikes again, claims 10 lives in Dhaka since Jan 1
During heavy monsoon, dengue rises drastically because Aedes mosquito breeding goes up. These mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, commonly found in flower pots, bottles, air conditioners, refrigerators. Dengue mosquitoes usually bite during daytime.
What are the symptoms of dengue?
- Headache and nausea
- Eye pain (usually behind the eyes)
- Joint and muscle pain
How can dengue be prevented?
- Cleaning out accumulated water from fridges and AC every three days
- Using mosquito nets for homes and on windows
- Wearing clothes that adequately cover the arms and legs
- Using mosquito repellent on exposed skin
Unfortunately, no vaccines exist for dengue. Prevention and precaution is better than medication.
A new test, Dengue ns-1 Ag test, can detect dengue at the early stages but it is not widely availability yet.
How can you tell if your dengue is getting worse?
- Breathlessness
- Vomiting blood or blood in stools
- Irritability and drowsiness
- Pale cold and damp skin and skin rashes
- Bleeding from the nose or gum
If any of these symptoms manifest, immediate medical attention should be provided.
How can you combat dengue?
- Taking paracetamol will control fever and relieve pain
- Drinking plenty of fluids will prevent dehydration
- Resting in cool air will help relieve from cold sweats
