Understanding Dengue Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Introduction
Dengue fever is a rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral illness that affects millions every year, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, dengue can range from a mild flu-like illness to severe, life-threatening conditions. Early diagnosis and proper management are key to reducing complications and fatalities.
What Causes Dengue Fever?
Dengue is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which has four distinct but related serotypes – DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. A person can be infected by each serotype once in their lifetime. Subsequent infections by different serotypes may increase the risk of severe dengue due to antibody-dependent enhancement.
How Is Dengue Transmitted?
The dengue virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito, mainly Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes are active during daylight hours and breed in stagnant water around homes. Once infected, a mosquito can transmit the virus for its entire life.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever
The disease typically develops 4–10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms may include:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headaches and pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pain (“breakbone fever”)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rash
- Mild bleeding (gums, nose, or easy bruising)
Warning Signs of Severe Dengue
Severe dengue is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical help if the patient shows:
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Bleeding gums or nose
- Difficulty in breathing
- Fatigue or restlessness
- Enlarged liver or fluid accumulation
Phases of Dengue Illness
- Febrile Phase (Day 1–3): High fever with general symptoms like headache and myalgia.
- Critical Phase (Day 4–6): Risk of severe complications like plasma leakage, bleeding, or organ impairment.
- Recovery Phase (Day 7–10): Gradual improvement in clinical condition, with fluid reabsorption and rising platelet count.
Diagnosis and Investigations
Common tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – to detect thrombocytopenia and leukopenia.
- NS1 Antigen test – useful in early diagnosis (first 5 days).
- IgM and IgG ELISA – detect antibodies after day 5.
- RT-PCR – for confirmatory diagnosis.
- Imaging (CXR/USG) – to assess fluid accumulation.
Dengue Treatment Guidelines
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management is primarily supportive and depends on severity:
For mild cases:
- Adequate hydration
- Paracetamol for fever (avoid NSAIDs)
- Regular monitoring
For moderate to severe cases:
- Hospital admission
- Intravenous fluid therapy
- Monitoring for bleeding, organ function, and fluid status
When to Hospitalize?
Hospitalization is recommended for patients with:
- Warning signs
- Dehydration
- Unstable vitals
- Severe dengue symptoms
Prevention of Dengue
Preventing mosquito bites and controlling mosquito breeding are crucial:
- Use mosquito repellents and nets
- Wear long-sleeved clothing
- Eliminate standing water
- Cover water containers
- Community fogging during outbreaks
- Biological control (e.g., introducing larvae-eating fish or Mesocyclops)
Dengue Vaccination
The first dengue vaccine (CYD-TDV by Sanofi Pasteur) offers some protection but is currently recommended only in specific age groups and in regions with high dengue burden due to variable efficacy across serotypes.
Conclusion
Dengue fever remains a serious public health challenge, especially during monsoon seasons. Early recognition of symptoms, appropriate care, and strict vector control are the cornerstones of reducing the disease burden. Always consult a healthcare provider if dengue is suspected.
For more information, contact Dr. Parul Yadav – Pediatrician & Neonatologist
📞 +91-98112 81684
