What Is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever, also known as breakbone fever, is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, most commonly Aedes aegypti. Dengue is a flu-like illness that can range from mild to life-threatening.
The disease is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 500,000 people require hospitalization due to dengue each year. High numbers of dengue cases are reported in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, Mexico, Africa, Central America, and South America.
As per data released by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP), around 67,000 dengue cases were reported in India by October 13, 2019.
Causes of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is caused by four closely related viruses:
- DENV-1
- DENV-2
- DENV-3
- DENV-4
The transmission cycle begins when a mosquito bites a person already infected with dengue. The virus multiplies inside the mosquito and is then transmitted to a healthy person through a subsequent bite. Once infected, the virus spreads through the bloodstream.
A person who recovers from dengue develops lifelong immunity to that specific virus type, but not to the other three strains. Repeated infections increase the risk of developing severe dengue, including dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever may be mild or severe. In children and adolescents, symptoms may be difficult to recognize initially.
Common symptoms include:
- High fever (up to 104°F / 40°C)
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle, bone, and joint pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swollen glands
- Skin rash
- Extreme fatigue
A diagnosis is usually suspected when a person has a high fever along with at least two of the above symptoms.
Types of Dengue Fever
There are three main clinical forms of dengue, which can be dangerous if not managed properly:
1. Mild Dengue Fever
- Symptoms usually appear 4–7 days after the mosquito bite
- Includes high fever, body pain, and headache
- Can progress to complications if not monitored
2. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)
- Initial symptoms may be mild
- Can worsen over a few days
- May cause bleeding, low platelet count, and plasma leakage
3. Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS)
- The most severe and life-threatening form
- Characterized by shock, severe bleeding, and organ failure
- Requires immediate hospitalization
Treatment Protocol for Dengue Fever
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on symptomatic treatment and careful monitoring.
Diet and Fluids
- Increase fluid intake (oral rehydration solution, water, coconut water, soups)
- Prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
Medications
- Tablet Paracetamol 500 mg – 2+2+2
- Paracetamol suppository if fever is greater than 102°F
- Avoid NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and diclofenac) due to bleeding risk
Monitoring and Support
- Volume replacement in case of dehydration or shock
- Monitor blood pressure every 2 hours to prevent shock
- Observe warning signs such as bleeding, persistent vomiting, or abdominal pain
Diagnostic Tests
The following investigations are recommended:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Serological tests for dengue virus
- Blood culture (if required to rule out other infections)
Prevention Tips
- Use mosquito repellents
- Wear full-sleeve clothing
- Eliminate stagnant water around homes
- Use mosquito nets and screens
- Community-level mosquito control programs
Medical Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Dengue fever is a serious but preventable disease. Early diagnosis, proper fluid management, and close monitoring can significantly reduce complications and mortality. Awareness, mosquito control, and timely medical care remain the key strategies in combating dengue.
Also read this post :- Cough Causes, Types & Treatment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus and spread through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It commonly causes high fever, body pain, and weakness.
Dengue spreads when an Aedes mosquito bites a person infected with the virus and then bites a healthy person, transmitting the virus into the bloodstream.
Early symptoms include sudden high fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
There are four types of dengue virus: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Infection with one type provides immunity only to that type.
Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe form of dengue that can cause bleeding, low platelet count, plasma leakage, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Dengue shock syndrome is the most serious form of dengue, leading to dangerously low blood pressure, shock, and organ failure. It requires immediate medical attention.
Dengue is diagnosed using blood tests such as Complete Blood Count (CBC) and serological tests to detect the dengue virus or antibodies.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Treatment includes rest, increased fluid intake, paracetamol for fever, and close monitoring of platelet count and blood pressure.
NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and diclofenac should be avoided as they increase the risk of bleeding.
Yes. Dengue can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites, using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.