How can we prevent dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne virus affecting more than 390 million people each year. While the disease is generally mild, it can be deadly.

Recent research shows dengue is between 100 and 800 years old. It likely originated in Africa or Southeast Asia and was then carried to other parts of the world through travel and trade. In recent years, dengue has spread to over 100 countries. Now, travelers to popular destinations like Brazil and India could contract the disease.

The virus is also known as 'break bone fever' due to its symptoms. Serious cases of dengue will progress into dengue hemorrhagic fever or DHF. While dengue is generally 'flu-like' DHF can be fatal. Early symptoms are the same as dengue.

But, acute symptoms are more serious. The virus causes 'leaky' blood vessels, circulatory failure, shock and death. There is no cure for dengue nor dengue hemorrhagic fever. Like its cousin's chikungunya and Zika, the dengue virus spreads through mosquito bites. Dengue often spreads when:

*    A mosquito (usually of the Aedes species) bites an infected human.

*    This mosquito is now infected with dengue fever. Mosquitoes are only carriers of the disease, it does not affect them as it does humans.

*    The mosquito bites a human. That human is now infected with the virus. He or she will then infect any unaffected mosquitoes that bite them.

According to the CDC, about 75 percent of all dengue infections show no symptoms. Around 20 percent of dengue symptoms are mild. But, five percent will develop severe, life-threatening symptoms. Be sure to use repellents and nettings to avoid mosquito bites.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Supportive care is used to help with symptoms. Usually, analgesics, hydration and bed rest are enough to help patients through their infection. If you suspect dengue during or after you trip, be sure to seek medical attention.

Because of the lack of a true dengue treatment, prevention is key while in regions with the disease. As a mosquito-borne disease, preventing dengue is as simple as preventing mosquito bites. There is no approved dengue vaccine in the United States. Many health organizations suggest the following to protect yourself from dengue:

*   Wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants.

*    Treat clothes with repellents like permethrin.

*    Use EPA-registered mosquito repellent like DEET.

*    Consider using mosquito netting if you will be in an area with many mosquitoes.

*   Make sure windows and doors screens are closed to avoid allowing mosquitoes into inclosed spaces.

*    Avoid areas with standing water. Especially at times of high mosquito activity like dawn and dusk.


The writer is a poet, columnist, and
banking professional.