June 15 is World Dengue Day one of the world’s fastest-growing mosquito-borne viral diseases. It is recognized and backed by the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases (ISNTD) and the Asian Dengue Voice and Action (ADVA) Group. This day highlights the global threat of dengue and the need for action.
Dengue is caused by the dengue virus (DENV) and spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. What makes it tricky is that there are four different types of the virus. That means someone can get dengue more than once—and subsequent infections can be more dangerous.
Though often mild, dengue can be life-threatening. Many who contract it experience fever, intense headaches, pain behind the eyes, and muscle or joint aches (earning it the nickname “breakbone fever”). While most people recover quickly, about 1 in 20 develop severe dengue, which can cause bleeding, organ damage, and death.
The rise of dengue is linked to factors such as climate change, global travel, and rapid urbanization. Outbreaks are now occurring in places where dengue was never previously reported, including parts of Europe and Africa. Without intervention, the virus will continue to spread, putting more people and health systems at risk.
Here are five key facts to know about dengue:
- Spreads fast: Dengue is the fastest-growing mosquito-borne viral infection in the world, now present in over 125 countries.
- Can get it more than once: Infection with one strain doesn’t provide immunity to the others and reinfection can lead to more severe illness.
- Can be dangerous during pregnancy: Dengue in pregnancy has been linked to higher risks of premature birth, low birth weight, and even fetal death.
- No specific cure: Treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Avoiding mosquito bites and reducing breeding sites is essential.
- Mosquitoes live close to us: Aedes aegypti mosquitoes breed in containers near homes. Simple actions like emptying standing water can make a big difference.
Since fever is one of the symptoms it is important to do regular temperature checks twice daily to track fever patterns. Using an easy-to-use, accurate thermometer like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer to ensure that temperature measurements are reliable and precise.
World Dengue Day is a reminder that everyone has a role in fighting this disease. Through education, prevention, and support for vaccine development, we can turn the tide against dengue.
Source,
- Dengue, https://www.dengue.com/wdd
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