What is Dengue?

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection spread mainly by mosquitoes.

Dengue can range from a mild illness known as "dengue fever" to a serious illness such as "dengue hemorrhagic fever" (DHF) and "dengue shock syndrome" (DSS).

The most common symptoms are fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain (hence the nickname "dengue fever"), nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash.

But serious symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums, subcutaneous bleeding) and liver enlargement can also occur. This can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure (shock) and can be fatal if not treated quickly.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Treatment is mainly supportive and aimed at controlling symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization is necessary.

Dengue occurs worldwide in more than 100 countries with tropical and subtropical climates, mainly in Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, Latin America and Africa. Due to climate change, the disease is now also more common in Europe.

In conclusion, dengue is a dangerous disease due to the possibility of serious complications, lack of specific treatment.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024