Detecting Dengue
What is dengue?
Dengue fever is a viral infection that does not spread through contact but is instead transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Aedes mosquitoes are characterized by their black and white striped body and legs.
What are the symptoms of dengue?
Common symptoms include a sudden onset of high fever accompanied by severe joint and muscle pain, headaches with pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, and body rashes. The symptoms usually develop within four to seven days after being bitten.
What should be done if dengue fever is suspected?
Should you get bitten by infected mosquitoes, identifying potential dengue fever symptoms and seeking early medical care is very important. Seek immediate medical attention if there is any severe bleeding from the nose or gums or if you notice skin bruises as these may indicate a more severe form of dengue fever.
Are there preventative or treatment medicines for dengue fever available?
There is currently no medication to prevent or treat dengue. Medicines used in the management of dengue fever mainly serve to reduce its symptoms.
The Aedesaegyoti mosquito, which carries the dengue virus, breeds in clear, stagnant water accumulated in cans, old tires, flower vases, pots, pails and other containers. People are advised to eliminate these things in their homes, schools and workplaces.
The DOH said that only by cleaning up the environment and prompt medical attention can the vicious cycle of transmission be broken- especially in regards to children.
