Dengue: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Overview of Dengue

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV). It spreads through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquito and is common in tropical and subtropical regions.

Nearly half of the world’s population is at risk, with millions of cases reported each year.

Symptoms of Dengue

Most people with dengue have mild or no symptoms and will get better in 1–2 weeks. Rarely, dengue can be severe and lead to death.  

If symptoms occur, they usually begin 4–10 days after infection and last for 2–7 days. Symptoms 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 for the second time are at greater risk of severe dengue. The symptoms of severe dengue often come after the fever has gone away and may include:

·        Severe abdominal pain

·        Persistent vomiting

·        Rapid breathing

·        Bleeding gums or nose 

·        Fatigue

·        Restlessness

·        Blood in vomit or stool

·        Being very thirsty

·        Pale and cold skin

·        Feeling weak.

People with these severe symptoms should seek care immediately.

After recovery, people who have had dengue may experience fatigue for several weeks.

Causes and Transmission

Dengue spreads mainly through the bite of infected female mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti. The virus can also rarely spread through blood transfusion or from mother to child during pregnancy.

Treatment of Dengue

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management includes:

·        Rest and hydration

·        Use of Paracetamol for fever and pain

·        Avoiding drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen

Severe cases may require hospitalization.

Prevention of Dengue

To reduce the risk of dengue:

·        Use mosquito repellents and nets

·        Wear full-body clothing

·        Remove stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding

·        Install window screens

Recent Advances in Dengue Research and Treatment

Dengue Vaccines Development

Recent years have seen major progress in dengue vaccines.
The WHO now recommends Qdenga (TAK-003), a tetravalent vaccine that protects against all four dengue virus types. It shows around 80% effectiveness and long-term protection in clinical studies.

New vaccines like:

• Butantan-DV (Brazil)
• TV003/TV005 candidate

Global Impact

Dengue is now endemic in over 100 countries. Cases have increased significantly in recent years due to climate change, urbanization, and population growth.

Conclusion

Dengue is a serious but preventable disease. Early detection, proper care, and mosquito control are key to reducing its impact globally.