Dengue is a viral infection that is spread by mosquitoes, mainly the Aedes aegypti species. It is common in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including many parts of Southeast Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Africa. Dengue fever can range from mild to severe, and in some cases can be fatal.
The symptoms of dengue fever usually appear 4-7 days after the mosquito bite and can include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. Most people recover from dengue fever within a week, with supportive care such as rest, fluids, and pain relievers.
However, in some cases, dengue fever can progress to a more severe form of the disease known as severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF is a potentially life-threatening complication that can cause severe bleeding, shock, and organ failure.
The symptoms of severe dengue can include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, fatigue, restlessness, and bleeding from the nose or gums. DHF requires urgent medical attention and treatment, including hospitalization, intravenous fluids, and blood transfusions.
Prevention of dengue includes taking measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and using bed nets. There is no specific treatment for dengue fever or DHF, but early detection and supportive care can help reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes. Vaccines are also available in some countries to help prevent dengue fever.