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An Overview of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection,is caused by the dengue virus that is mainly spread by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The disease is endemic in more than 100 countries, especially in tropical and subtropical regions, including Malaysia. The World Health Organization (WHO) has mentioned that there is a significant increase in dengue cases in recent decades, with approximately half the world’s population at risk.
Main symptoms of dengue fever include:
- High fever (104°F/40°C)
- Serious headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pain
- Skin rash
- Mild bleeding (e.g., nose or gums)
In serious cases, dengue can escalate to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.
What is the Role of Vaccination in Dengue Prevention?
Vaccination has become an important weapon in fighting against dengue fever. The recent arrival of the Qdenga (TAK-003) vaccine brings new hope for lessening the impact of the disease. Qdenga is effective against all four dengue virus serotypes, and is approved for people aged 6 and older in some countries.
Benefits of the Qdenga vaccine:
- Offers protection against all dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4).
- Suitable for people whether or not they have experienced a dengue infection before.
- Decreases the risk of serious dengue and hospitalization.
People who should consider vaccination
- People who live in dengue-endemic areas.
- Travelers to places where dengue is common.
- People who have had dengue fever before (to prevent reinfection and serious complications).
It is crucial to consult a doctor to determine whether you are eligible to take the vaccine and understand any possible side effects.
What are Some Complementary Measures to Prevent Dengue Transmission?
Although vaccination is a game-changer, additional preventive strategies are important to reduce the risk of developing dengue infection. These measures focus on controlling mosquito populations and safeguarding people from mosquito bites.
What are the steps to prevent mosquito bites?
- Use insect repellent that has N,N-Diethyl Meta Toluamide (DEET), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear long-sleeved tops and long pants, specifically during early morning and evening, which are peak mosquito activity times.
- Sleep under mosquito nets or in rooms with air-conditioning.
What are environmental measures to decrease mosquito breeding?
- Get rid of standing water in containers like buckets, flowerpots, and unwanted tires.
- Water storage containers should be covered securely.
- Frequently clean drains and gutters to avoid water accumulation.
- Use unremovable larvicides in stagnant water.
Community participation in vector control programs is also important for sustainable dengue prevention.
The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment
Early diagnosis and management of dengue fever notably decrease the risk of serious complications. Initial symptoms may be similar to other illnesses, like influenza or malaria, making accurate testing crucial. Diagnostic methods include:
- NS1 antigen test: Identifies dengue virus within the first five days of illness.
- RT-PCR test: Confirms the presence of dengue RNA in blood samples.
- Serological tests: Detect antibodies produced in response to the infection.
Treatment for dengue fever:
Although there is no particular antiviral treatment for dengue, supportive care can still help soothe symptoms and prevent complications. This includes:
- Sufficient hydration to avoid dehydration.
- Fever management with paracetamol (avoid aspirin or NSAIDs).
- Careful observation for warning signs of serious dengue, such as continuous vomiting, abdominal pain, or bleeding.
Serious cases require swift hospitalization for intravenous fluids and supportive care.
Schedule an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Dengue fever is still a notable health threat to all, but advancements such as the Qdenga vaccine and strong preventive strategies pave a clear road ahead. Safeguarding yourself through vaccination, personal precautions, and environmental management is important. At Pantai Hospitals, we provide comprehensive services for dengue prevention, early detection, and treatment. Book an appointment today to consult with our specialists and take proactive steps to protect your health. You may also book an appointment via our website or download our My Health 360 application from Google Play Store.
Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
