Bengaluru: As the monsoon season begins, dengue fever is on the rise in the state. In Bengaluru, the number of people suffering from dengue is increasing day by day. Even the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Commissioner, Tushar Girinath, has contracted dengue. The Commissioner, who is on leave for four days, is receiving treatment at home and recovering, according to Kannada media outlets. 

Understanding Dengue: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Dengue fever, commonly referred to as dengue, is a mosquito-borne viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. As the monsoon season sets in, the incidence of dengue often rises, making it crucial for individuals to be aware of its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Causes of Dengue

Dengue is caused by one of four closely related viruses known as DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The primary vector responsible for transmitting these viruses is the Aedes mosquito, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes breed in stagnant water and are most active during early morning and late afternoon.

When an Aedes mosquito bites a person already infected with the dengue virus, it becomes a carrier. If this infected mosquito then bites another person, the virus is transmitted, leading to a new infection.

Symptoms of Dengue

Dengue fever presents a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe, which typically appear 4-10 days after the mosquito bite. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s immune response and whether they have been previously infected with a different strain of the virus. Common symptoms include:

  1. High Fever: Sudden onset of fever, often as high as 104°F (40°C).
  2. Severe Headache: Intense pain in the head, often described as throbbing.
  3. Pain Behind the Eyes: A characteristic symptom of dengue.
  4. Joint and Muscle Pain: Severe aches, sometimes referred to as "breakbone fever."
  5. Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea and episodes of vomiting.
  6. Skin Rash: A red rash that can appear several days after the fever begins.
  7. Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and weakness.
  8. Mild Bleeding: Such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising.

In some cases, dengue can progress to severe dengue (also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome), which can be life-threatening. Severe dengue symptoms include:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Rapid breathing
  • Bleeding gums
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Fatigue and restlessness

Treatment of Dengue

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. The primary approach to managing dengue involves supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Key aspects of dengue treatment include:

  1. Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions or intravenous (IV) fluids may be administered in severe cases.
  2. Pain Relief: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is recommended for relieving pain and reducing fever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
  3. Monitoring: Patients, especially those with severe dengue, should be closely monitored for signs of complications. Hospitalization may be necessary for those with severe symptoms or complications.
  4. Rest: Ample rest is essential to help the body fight off the virus and recover.

Prevention of Dengue

Preventing dengue primarily involves measures to reduce mosquito bites and control mosquito populations. Effective prevention strategies include:

  • Eliminating Breeding Sites: Regularly emptying or covering containers that can collect standing water, such as flower pots, buckets, and discarded tires.
  • Using Mosquito Repellents: Applying insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.
  • Wearing Protective Clothing: Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes to minimize skin exposure.
  • Using Mosquito Nets: Sleeping under mosquito nets, especially in areas with high mosquito populations.
  • Installing Screens: Using window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes.
Dengue fever is a significant health concern in many parts of the world, particularly during the monsoon season. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing the appropriate treatment and prevention methods are essential steps in managing and reducing the impact of this viral infection. Staying informed and taking proactive measures can help protect individuals and communities from the debilitating effects of dengue fever.