Dengue Fever Vaccination
Dengue fever, a viral illness primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, poses a substantial public health threat in numerous tropical and subtropical regions.
This mosquito, active during the day, particularly favours urban settings and areas with open water sources, such as containers filled with rainwater, ponds, and ditches. It is crucial to comprehend the transmission, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of dengue fever to safeguard yourself and your loved ones.
Prevention
Preventing dengue fever primarily involves a combination of mosquito control and personal protective measures. To effectively control mosquitoes, it is important to eliminate potential breeding sites, such as standing water in containers like flower pots, buckets, and tires. The use of insecticides and mosquito nets in areas where Aedes mosquitoes are prevalent further contributes to controlling their population. On a personal level, individuals can protect themselves from mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing and applying mosquito repellents. Whenever possible, staying in air-conditioned or screened-in accommodations adds an extra layer of defence. For those travelling to regions where dengue is endemic, taking additional precautions is essential. Stay informed about local outbreaks and adhere to public health recommendations to minimize the risk of contracting the disease.
Countries at risk
Currently, the disease has attained endemic status in over 100 countries spanning the WHO Regions of Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asia, and the Western Pacific. The regions most severely impacted are the Americas, South-East Asia, and the Western Pacific, with Asia bearing approximately 70% of the global disease burden
Travel Precautions
Signs and Symptoms
The incubation period for dengue fever typically spans from 4 to 10 days following a bite from an infected mosquito. The severity of symptoms varies, and dengue infection manifests in different forms. Mild Dengue Fever, also known as dengue fever, often results in mild symptoms or an entirely asymptomatic experience, such as fever, slight headache, and joint or muscle pain. On the other hand, severe dengue, or Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, presents more intense symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and a rash. This severe form can progress to life-threatening complications like severe bleeding, organ failure, and shock. Timely medical attention is crucial, as untreated severe dengue can be fatal; however, with proper medical care, the mortality rate can be reduced to less than 1%.