15/05/2025
DENGUE FEVER – A Complete Guide
What is Dengue?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness caused by the Dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including Sri Lanka, and occurs mostly during and after the rainy season.
Causes & Transmission:
Caused by four different dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4).
Transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours.
The virus cannot spread directly from person to person.
Signs & Symptoms:
Symptoms appear 4–10 days after the mosquito bite and may last for 2–7 days. They include:
Sudden high fever (up to 104°F / 40°C)
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Muscle and joint pain (nicknamed “breakbone fever”)
Nausea and vomiting
Skin rash (appears 2–5 days after fever starts)
Fatigue and weakness
Mild bleeding (nose or gums, easy bruising)
Types of Dengue:
Dengue Fever – Mild form
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) – Severe form with bleeding and low platelet count
Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS) – Most severe, can lead to organ failure, shock, and death
Warning Signs of Severe Dengue (Seek Immediate Care):
Persistent vomiting
Severe abdominal pain
Bleeding gums or nose
Blood in vomit or stool
Difficulty breathing
Fatigue, restlessness
Sudden drop in blood pressure
Diagnosis:
Blood tests: Full blood count (low platelet count, low white cells), NS1 antigen, IgM/IgG ELISA, PCR for virus detection
Monitoring vital signs and hydration status is crucial
Treatment:
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management is supportive:
Rest and fluid intake
Paracetamol for fever (avoid aspirin or ibuprofen)
Monitor for signs of bleeding or shock
Hospitalization may be needed for severe cases
Prevention:
Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (empty stagnant water from containers, tires, pots)
Use mosquito nets, repellents, and insecticides
Wear long-sleeved clothes and trousers
Install screens on windows and doors
Community education and fogging in high-risk areas
Vaccination:
Dengue vaccines (e.g., Dengvaxia) are available in some countries but are not widely used in all settings. They are recommended only for individuals previously infected.
Key Facts:
One person can get dengue up to four times (from each serotype).
Second infections are more likely to cause severe dengue.
Early detection and proper medical care reduce fatality rates to below 1%.
Final Message:
Dengue is preventable and manageable with awareness, prompt action, and community cooperation. Let’s unite to destroy mosquito breeding grounds and protect our loved ones.
Stay Safe. Prevent Dengue. Save Lives.
Nursing Master