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Dengue Fever

বাংলা নাম: ডেঙ্গু জ্বর

Jump to: Overview Symptoms Causes Prevention When to See Doctor Doctors

1 Overview

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, transmitted primarily by female Aedes mosquitoes. Common in tropical and subtropical climates, dengue causes flu-like illness that can occasionally develop into a potentially lethal complication called severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever).

2 Symptoms & Signs

High Fever Headache Nausea and Vomiting Joint Pain & Swelling Skin Rash & Itching

Sudden high fever (104°F / 40°C)
Severe headache and pain behind the eyes (retro-orbital pain)
Excruciating joint and muscle pain ("breakbone fever")
Nausea, vomiting, and fatigue
Skin rash appearing 2 to 5 days after onset of fever

3 Causes

Caused by any of four closely related dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, DENV-4). Transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.

Risk Factors

Living in or traveling to tropical areas with high mosquito density
Previous infection with a different dengue serotype increases severe dengue risk
Accumulation of standing water in pots, roofs, or tires

Complications

Severe dengue or Dengue Shock Syndrome involves severe plasma leakage, internal bleeding, severe organ impairment, dangerously low platelet counts, and shock.

4 Prevention

Prevent mosquito bites by using repellents and mosquito nets even during daytime
Eliminate standing clean water from flowerpots, air conditioners, and discarded tires
Wear loose, long-sleeved clothing
Support community fogging and larvicide spraying

⚠️ When to See a Doctor

Go to an emergency room immediately if warning signs appear: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from gums/nose, breathing difficulty, extreme restlessness, or cold clammy skin.

5 Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosed via NS1 antigen test (within days 1-3) and Complete Blood Count (CBC) to monitor hematocrit and platelet counts. Treatment focuses on adequate oral hydration (ORS, coconut water, soup), paracetamol for fever, and IV fluid management if hospitalized.

References & Academic Sources

[1]
World Health Organization (WHO) — Dengue and Severe Dengue Fact Sheet [Link]
[2]
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Clinical Guidelines for Dengue [Link]

📢 Medical Disclaimer: This content is strictly for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.