DENGUE
INTRODUCTION
It originated in monkeys and spread to humans in Africa and
Southeast Asia. The accidental transport of mosquitoes during
World War II contributed to its global spread. In Pakistan, the first
outbreak occurred in Karachi in 1994, possibly brought in through
trade or infected travelers from Thailand and Malaysia.
Dengue fever is a significant global
health concern, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
It can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can be
life-threatening.
CAUSES
Dengue is primarily caused by the transmission of the dengue
virus through the bite of infected mosquitoes, specifically the
Aedes species, with Aedes aegypti being the main culprit.
When a mosquito bites a person infected with the dengue
virus, it becomes a carrier of the virus. Subsequently, when
the infected mosquito bites another person, it can transmit
the virus to them.
Dengue is spread primarily through
the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. Stagnant water serves
as breeding grounds for these mosquitoes, increasing their
population. Poor sanitation practices and inadequate
mosquito control measures further contribute to the spread
of dengue. Inadequate waste management and lack of proper
water storage practices can lead to the accumulation of
stagnant water. International travel and trade introduce the
dengue virus to new areas, contributing to its spread and
increasing the risk of outbreaks.
SYMPTOMS
Dengue virus incubates usually for 4 to 7 days before the
symptoms of the disease appear in the infected person . The
fever starts with chill headache, pain behind the eyes, aching
in muscles and joints, the temperature rises quickly as high
as 104°F with low heartbeat and blood pressure. The eyes
may become red and a red rash may appear on the body.
In severe cases: Dengue can
progress to a severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic
fever, which can cause organ failure, severe bleeding, and
even death.
Seek medical attention: It is important to seek medical
attention if experiencing these symptoms, especially in areas
where dengue is prevalent
PRECAUTIONARY
MEASURES
1. Use mosquito repellent: Apply insect repellent containing
DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin
and clothing.
2. Wear protective clothing: Cover exposed skin by wearing
long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes,
especially during peak mosquito activity times (dawn and
dusk).
3. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites: Remove or empty any
containers, such as flower pots, buckets, or discarded tires,
that can collect and hold stagnant water where mosquitoes
lay eggs.
4. Keep windows and doors screened: Install window and
door screens or use bed nets to create a physical barrier
between mosquitoes and yourself.
5. Stay in air-conditioned or screened-in areas: Mosquitoes
are less likely to enter enclosed spaces, so try to spend time
indoors in areas that are protected from mosquitoes.
6. Be cautious during travel: If traveling to dengue-endemic
areas, take extra precautions by using mosquito nets, staying
in air-conditioned accommodations, and following local
health advisories.
7. Educate yourself and others: Learn about dengue
prevention and spread awareness among family, friends, and
community members to encourage everyone to take
preventive measures.
Remember, these measures are not only important for
personal protection but also for reducing the overall
mosquito population and preventing the spread of dengue to
others