About Dengu

Dengu

Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes1. It’s more common in tropical and subtropical climates, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas. While many infections are asymptomatic or result in only mild illness, dengue can occasionally cause severe cases and even be fatal1.

Symptoms of dengue typically begin 4–10 days after infection and may include:

• High fever (40°C/104°F)
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Swollen glands
• Rash

Individuals who are infected a second time are at greater risk of developing severe dengue. This can involve severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums or nose, fatigue, restlessness, and blood in vomit or stool.

There is no specific treatment for dengue; it is managed by treating symptoms with pain medicine like acetaminophen (paracetamol). Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin are avoided as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Prevention and control primarily involve vector control to reduce mosquito populations.

A vaccine called Dengvaxia is available for people who have had dengue at least once and live in areas where the disease is common. However, for severe cases, hospitalization is often necessary to manage complications