Dengue Symptoms - Is it Just a Fever?

Dengue fever might sound like just another tropical disease, but for millions of people every year, it is a life-altering illness, and in some cases, even fatal. With dengue cases surging in many parts of the world, especially during the rainy season, it is time we take this mosquito-borne virus seriously.

Let us dive into what dengue is, how to protect yourself and your family, and why prevention matters now more than ever.

What Is Dengue Fever?

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, most active during early morning and late afternoon. Once infected, symptoms usually appear within 4–10 days and may include:

Sudden high fever

Severe headaches

Pain behind the eyes

Muscle and joint pain (“breakbone fever”)

Skin rashes

Nausea and vomiting

In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, both of which can be life-threatening.

Why It is Getting Worse

There are several reasons why dengue is spreading more rapidly than in previous decades:

• Climate Change: Warmer temperatures allow mosquitoes to breed and spread faster.
• Urbanization: Stagnant water in densely populated areas becomes breeding grounds.
• Lack of Awareness: Many people still mistake dengue for a common viral fever.
• No Specific Cure: There is currently no antiviral drug for dengue, only supportive care.

What To Do If You Suspect Dengue

If you or someone in your household has symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Do not self-medicate with aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can increase the risk of bleeding.

Treatment focuses on:

• Staying hydrated
• Managing fever with paracetamol (acetaminophen)
• Monitoring for warning signs: bleeding, persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness

If any warning signs appear, hospital admission is critical.

How To Prevent Dengue

The good news? Dengue is preventable. Here is how:

Protect Your Skin

• Use mosquito repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants, especially during peak mosquito hours.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

• Install screens on windows and doors.
• Use mosquito nets, especially for babies and the elderly.
• Keep rooms cool, as mosquitoes are less active in air-conditioned spaces.

Eliminate Breeding Sites

• Empty and clean water containers weekly.
• Cover water tanks and buckets.
• Watch out for flower pots, clogged drains, or discarded containers that collect rainwater.

Debunking Common Myths

“Papaya leaf juice cures dengue.”

While papaya leaf extract may help increase platelet count, it is not a substitute for medical care.

“You only get dengue once.”

There are four different strains of dengue. Getting infected once does not protect you from the others, in fact, a second infection may be more severe.

Awareness Saves Lives - Dengue is not just a personal issue, it is a community responsibility. By staying informed, taking action, and spreading awareness, we can protect not only ourselves but also those around us.

Remember:

One mosquito bite can change your life — but one smart decision can save it.