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DENGUE FEVER

DENGUE FEVER

24/07/2020

Dengue is a disease caused by any one of four closely related virus (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4). The virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of Aedes aegypti that is infected with a dengue virus. The virus circulates in the blood leading to fever. Infection with one strain does not provide cross protection against another strain. 
 
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
 
High fever (400C/1040F) with the following:
  • Headaches
  • Chills
  • Pain behind eyes
  • Nausea, vomiting 
  • Joint, bone or muscle pains
  • Rash 

The fever tends to decline within 3-7 days after symptoms begin. As the fever decreases, warning signs of a severe infection may appear. 
 
WARNING SIGNS 
 
Watch for warning signs to 3-7 days after symptoms began even if temperature declines. Rush to hospital if ANY of the following symptom appear:
  • Fatigue/restlessness
  • Pale, cold, or clammy extremities, especially in the 4th – 5th day of disease
  • Rapid breathing 
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Bleeding from nose or gums
  • Vomiting blood/ blood in urine or black stools
  • Abdominal pain

A severe infection can lead to shock and organ failure.
 
HOW DENGUE FEVER IS DIAGNOSED?
 
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Blood tests may be done to look for diagnosis and complications. 
 
HOW DENGUE FEVER IS TREATED?

You may be referred to a specialist. 
There are no medications currently available that can provide a cure. Early diagnosis and immediate medical care are needed. 
Supportive care may include:
  • Take rest
  • Drink plenty of fluids – ORS, fruit juices… This will help to replace fluids, sugars and salts lost during the illness.
  • Take Paracetamol – to reduce fever and joint pain.
  • Aspirin or Ibuprofen should not be taken.

Children with warning signs should be monitored at hospital.
 
HOW TO PREVENT DENGUE FEVER?

 
IMMUNIZATION
 
Dengvaxia® (CYD-TDV) developed by Sanofi Pasteur was licensed in December 2015 and has now been approved by regulatory authorities in 20 countries for use in endemic areas in persons ranging from 9-45 years of age.
 
  • by Super Admin
  • In News & Events

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