Dengue: Here is What you Need to Know

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Endemic to tropical and subtropical regions, the dengue virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. The virus has four serotypes, and infection with one serotype provides only transient immunity to the others. Secondary infections with a different serotype can increase the risk of severe dengue. While the disease is often asymptomatic or results in mild symptoms, it can progress to severe dengue, characterized by shock, heavy bleeding, or organ damage. Checking for fever regularly is crucial since fever is one of the primary signs of dengue. 

Dengue Cases are on the Rise 

Since the beginning of 2024, over 10 million dengue cases and over 5000 dengue-related deaths have been reported from 80 countries/territories. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) there was an 8-fold increase in global dengue incidence between 2000 and 2019.  

In Costa Rica, during the week of October 19-21, 607 new cases of dengue fever were reported, with 149 people requiring medical attention due to severe dengue symptoms. This year, the total number of dengue cases with warning signs reached 27791. Compared to the same period in 2023, when 18125 infections were reported, this represents an alarming 153% increase. 

Currently, Bangladesh is struggling to tame a surge in dengue cases as climate change turns the disease into a year-round crisis, leaving some pediatric wards packed with children squeezed two to a bed. In October, Bangladesh recorded 134 deaths from dengue, the deadliest month this year, taking the total in 2024 to 326. 

Dengue Moves Out of the Tropics 

Dengue is no longer just limited to the tropics. It is found around the world including North and South Americas, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. In recent years dengue cases can be found in previously unaffected areas, including parts of Europe and the continental United States.  

What’s Fueling Dengue?  

First, warmer, wetter seasons means there are more mosquitoes in more places, and these mosquitoes are hard to fight. Second, dengue is cyclical. Large outbreaks tend to occur every few years in areas with mosquitoes and living conditions that make protecting against bites more difficult. And third, people are traveling more, especially to places where dengue is common. These major drivers have contributed to an alarming rise of dengue cases globally. 

Dengue Fever 

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that presents symptoms that can range from mild to severe, including high fever, headaches, rash, and muscle and joint pain. In its severe form, it can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, potentially resulting in severe bleeding, a sudden drop in blood pressure (shock), and death.   

Fever is one of the primary symptoms of dengue and often the first sign that someone may be infected. It’s not just an indicator of the disease but also a gauge of its progression. Monitoring fever can help in early detection, timely medical intervention, and reducing the risk of severe complications.    

Importance of Temperature Checks 

Checking one’s body temperature twice daily becomes a critical practice. It enables individuals to track their health status and seek medical help promptly if there’s a consistent rise in temperature, indicative of a potential dengue infection.   

It is important to have a reliable, easy-to-use, and accurate thermometer. The Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer stands out as an ideal tool for this purpose. Its non-invasive nature and precision make it suitable for individuals of all ages, allowing for regular temperature checks without any discomfort.   

As more communities battle against dengue, let’s emphasize the significance of individual health monitoring. By staying informed, prepared, and proactive, we can all contribute to overcoming this public health challenge.    

Sources:  

EXERGEN P/N, 850287