Dengue Fever

Dengue (pronounced DENG-gay) fever is a virus transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito.

The symptoms include:

  • High fever
  • Severe headache
  • Severe pain behind the eyes
  • Exhaustion
  • Severe joint and muscle pain
  • Swollen glands
  • Rash
  • Mild bleeding (e.g., bleeding of the nose or gums; easy bruising)

The “dengue triad” of fever, rash and headache (and other pains) is characteristic of the disease.

Also known as break-bone fever or dandy fever (from contortions due to intense joint and muscle pain), it is possible to get dengue fever multiple times.

Treatment is aimed at relieving the symptoms:

  • Rest
  • Plenty of fluids
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and codeine may be given for severe headache and for the joint and muscle pain.
  • NO aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or Motrin.
  • If vomiting or severe abdominal pain develops in the first 24 hours after the fever declines, seek immediate medical care.

The best way to avoid contracting malaria and dengue fever is to prevent the bite. Measures to reduce or eliminate the possibility of being bitten include:

  • Limit outdoor exposure and activities during the evening hours. The mosquito that transmits malaria bites only between dusk and dawn.
  • Wear lightweight long sleeved shirt, long pants and a hat.
  • Use DEET insect repellent (with 30%-50% DEET) on exposed skin.
  • Flying insect spray (containing a pyrethroid insecticide) to clear rooms of mosquitoes.

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