Dengue fever is one of the world’s leading mosquito-borne illnesses and infects millions across the globe annually.
Dengue is transmitted by one of the types of mosquito, which thrives in densely-populated tropical climates and breeds in stagnant pools of water. The mosquitoes pick up the virus from infected humans and pass it along to other people through bites.
Symptoms
Headache
Muscle, bone and joint pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Pain behind the eyes
Swollen glands
Rash
Though most people recover within a week or so, in some cases, symptoms worsen and can become life-threatening.
Symptoms of severe dengue fever include:
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting
Bleeding from your gums or nose
Blood in your urine, stools or vomit
Bleeding under the skin, which might look like bruising
Difficult or rapid breathing
Precautions
Make sure there is no stagnant water in your house or street.
Apply mosquito repellent to the exposed skin.
Wear long-sleeves and long pants to cover your arms and legs.
Use mosquito nets while sleeping.
Treatment
If you experience any of the above symptoms, get a blood test immediately and visit your doctor. Timely action can prevent the disease from spreading or becoming fatal.
