Dengue Fever: What is it?

Carried by mosquitoes, Dengue Fever is a disease that stems from one of four viruses. A bite from an Aedes mosquito can result in this infection, and this becomes something of a vicious circle, as more mosquitoes become infectious when they bite an infected person, and then the disease spreads further as these infectious mosquitoes then go on to bite people that are in good health.

What are the symptoms?

There are a variety of Dengue Fever symptoms to look out for, but it is worth noting that some of the symptoms of this disease are very non-specific in nature and could be mistaken for one of any number of diseases. Disease symptoms include:

• Severe headaches
• Pain behind the eye
• Fever
• Rash
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pains in the joints and bones

Because of the pain caused in the joints and bones by this disease, it used be to known as break-bone fever.

What about treatment?

This disease is usually diagnosed by a health professional by way of a blood test. Once the presence of the infection has been determined, the treatment for the disease is usually plenty of fluids and bed rest, and medication to bring down the fever if required. However, the best medicine for this disease is obviously prevention, as the infection can be very uncomfortable. A good repellent coupled with protective clothing should help to minimize on the risk of suffering a bite from an infectious insect.

How long does it last?

Recovery from this disease takes about two weeks, and infected people usually go on to recover their health in full. However, if you are away on business or vacation, contracting this infection can make things difficult and uncomfortable, which is why it is important to take precautions beforehand.

For more information please visit the CDC Dengue Fever Home Page.