Understanding Dengue: Causes and Prevention

Dengue has become quite a concern lately, affecting many people from children to adults. This mosquito-borne tropical disease is primarily caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. The disease leads to a fever that can persist for anywhere between 2 to 7 days. Notably, dengue is associated with an annual incidence of approximately 400 million cases worldwide, with around 22,000 fatalities, highlighting its significant public health impact ^[4]. While there's no guaranteed way to avoid catching the virus, various government initiatives have been implemented to help mitigate dengue transmission.

This virus belongs to the Flaviviridae RNA family, which also includes other fevers like yellow fever and West Nile virus. Interestingly, there are four distinct dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4), with the most recent serotype identified in 2022 in Niger ^[1]. The Aedes mosquito family, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, is responsible for transmitting the virus, which resides in their salivary glands. When an infected mosquito bites, the virus enters the human bloodstream, targeting platelets and leading to various symptoms such as severe joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, fever, rashes, and headaches ^[3].

Typically, these mosquitoes tend to bite during the early morning or late evening hours. It's worth noting that only female mosquitoes bite when they are infected with the virus. They lay their eggs in artificial water containers, making the presence of standing water a significant factor in the spread of dengue. This makes monsoon season particularly risky, as puddles become breeding grounds. In severe cases, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) can affect young children, presenting symptoms like severe rashes, fluid accumulation in the lungs, or even bleeding ^[5].

While there's no foolproof way to prevent dengue fever, you can take some straightforward measures to reduce your risk of infection.

1. Make sure your environment is free from excess water, including puddles. Even a small amount of rainwater in an open bucket can become a breeding ground. Keeping your surroundings clear of standing water is essential for living in a dengue-free area, as these conditions significantly contribute to mosquito reproduction ^[2].

2. Use mosquito repellents. The strong scent of these repellents can deter mosquitoes from biting you. While you can't entirely control the mosquito population, it's always better to prevent than to cure.

3. Maintaining a healthy immune system can help combat the dengue virus. Since the virus targets blood platelets, a nutritious diet can strengthen your immune defenses, aiding in a quicker recovery. Foods rich in antioxidants, like papaya leaves and pomegranates, can improve your bloodstream and may contribute to better health outcomes post-infection ^[3].

4. Regularly spray your garden with pesticides to deter breeding. Gardens, with their moisture and standing water, often become hotspots for mosquito egg-laying. Ensuring your garden has sufficient water without excess can help curb mosquito reproduction.

While these steps can help reduce the likelihood of contracting dengue, it's crucial to be prepared in case you do catch the virus. If you experience any of the aforementioned symptoms along with a fever, consult a doctor immediately. It's not wise to take chances with such a serious illness as dengue.