#best paediatrician in Kalyan, rambaug, kongao, Kalyan bypass, Mumbra #Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, which belongs to the Flavivirus genus. It is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. The disease is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, posing significant public health challenges. ## Symptoms Dengue fever typically manifests 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Common symptoms include: - **High fever**: Sudden onset of fever, often reaching up to 104°F (40°C). - **Severe headache**: Intense pain, often behind the eyes. - **Joint and muscle pain**: Sometimes referred to as "breakbone fever" due to the severity of the pain. - **Nausea and vomiting**: Gastrointestinal symptoms are common. - **Fatigue**: General weakness and tiredness. - **Rash**: A skin rash may develop a few days after the fever starts. In some cases, dengue can progress to severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome), which can be life-threatening and is characterized by severe bleeding, organ impairment, and plasma leakage. ## Transmission The transmission cycle of dengue fever involves: - **Mosquitoes**: Aedes mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person already infected with the virus. The virus then multiplies in the mosquito, and the mosquito can transmit the virus to other humans through bites. - **Human hosts**: Humans are the primary hosts for the dengue virus. Once infected, a person can transmit the virus to mosquitoes, perpetuating the cycle. ## Diagnosis Diagnosis of dengue fever is typically made through: - **Clinical evaluation**: Assessment of symptoms and medical history. - **Laboratory tests**: Blood tests to detect the presence of the virus or antibodies against it. Common tests include: - NS1 antigen test: Detects the viral protein. - IgM and IgG antibody tests: Indicate recent or past infection. ## Treatment There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on supportive care, which includes: - **Hydration**: Ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. - **Pain relief**: Use of acetaminophen (paracetamol) for fever and pain management. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen should be avoided due to the risk of bleeding. - **Monitoring**: Close observation for signs of severe dengue, particularly in high-risk groups such as children and the elderly. ## Prevention Preventive measures are crucial in controlling dengue transmission: - **Mosquito control**: Reducing mosquito breeding sites by eliminating standing water in containers, tires, and other areas. - **Personal protection**: Using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using mosquito nets can help reduce exposure. - **Community awareness**: Education on the importance of dengue prevention and control measures. Dengue fever remains a significant public health concern in many regions, necessitating ongoing efforts in surveillance, prevention, and research to develop effective vaccines and treatments.