Dengue – Symptoms & prevention measures

Article written by :
Dr Anupam Maity
MD (General Medicine)
Consultant General Medicine

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease which poses high medical burden in many regions worldwide. However, the disease is now an endemic in many of the regions in the world. At this juncture of the COVID 19 pandemic in India, a rise in cases of dengue is being seen here in West Bengal. Dengue virus is transmitted by female mosquitoes mainly of the species Aedes aegypti.

Dengue causes several symptoms which can range from fever, flu-like symptoms to even low blood pressure in those, who get infected. Although less common, some people develop severe dengue, which can give rise to severe bleeding, organ impairment and even plasma leakage. Severe dengue has a higher risk of death when not managed appropriately & timely.

The most common symptoms of mild dengue are:

1. High fever (40°C/104°F)
2. Severe headache
3. Pain behind the eyes
4. Muscle and joint pains
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Rash

The symptoms for severe dengue include the following and need proper medical attention:

1. Abdominal pain
2. Persistent vomiting
3. Rapid breathing
4. Bleeding gums
5. Fatigue
6. Restlessness
7. Blood in vomit
8. Decrease in urine output

Hence if anyone notices the above mentioned symptoms, immediately consult your physician or visit any nearest medical center for confirmed diagnosis.

How to protect yourself and your family members from dengue?

1. Check your home premises for any water logging areas. Clear waterlogged areas so that there is no place for mosquito breeding. Discard stagnant water and if not possible, use anti-mosquito measures
2. Avoid visiting areas prone to mosquitoes
3. Wear clothes which cover up your whole body (less skin exposure). Preferably long sleeves and long pants
4. Use mosquito repellents (not applicable for children below the age of two months)
5. Use mosquito nets at night while sleeping
6. Keep the doors and windows of the house closed, mostly early in the morning and during the evening

Maintaining proper health and hygiene will help you protect yourself and your loved ones from any disease and severity of any medical conditions. So follow all precautionary measures and also have a look out for any symptoms before they reach the extreme.