4 Skills You Must Learn for a Career in Digital Marketing
In 2024, the number of deaths from dengue fever in the Caribbean and the Americas has surged dramatically, with warm weather brought on by the climate crisis allowing mosquitoes carrying the virus to expand their range. The region has reported over 7,700 deaths, compared to 2,467 in 2023, marking an increase of more than 200%. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) of the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the region has reported a record 12.6 million suspected cases of mosquito-borne viruses this year, nearly three times the number of last year.
According to PAHO, the virus has surged globally since last year, spreading to areas previously unaffected by dengue fever.
Brazil has reported the highest number of dengue cases, exceeding 10 million, followed by Argentina with more than 580,000 cases, and Mexico with over 500,000 cases. In the Caribbean, Guyana leads with more than 41,000 cases, followed by French Guiana, the Dominican Republic, and Martinique.
Meanwhile, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), California, Florida, and Texas have reported local transmission of dengue fever this year.
While many of those infected do not become sick, some experience headaches, fever, and flu-like symptoms. Severe cases can lead to serious bleeding, shock, and death. Recurrent infections can be particularly dangerous.
Dengue fever is a viral illness primarily transmitted by the Aedes mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes aegypti. It is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, particularly in Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa, and Central and South America. The disease is caused by the dengue virus, which exists in four distinct serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4). An individual can contract the disease multiple times, though each subsequent infection with a different serotype may increase the risk of severe complications.
The symptoms of dengue fever typically appear 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The severity of symptoms can vary, ranging from mild to severe. In some cases, symptoms are so mild that they may be mistaken for other illnesses like the flu. However, in severe cases, dengue fever can lead to life-threatening complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Below are the most common symptoms of dengue fever:
One of the most characteristic symptoms of dengue fever is a sudden, high fever, often exceeding 104°F (40°C). The fever usually comes on rapidly and is accompanied by chills and body aches.
A throbbing headache is common in dengue fever, and it is typically centered around the forehead. This symptom can be quite intense, making it difficult to focus or carry out daily activities.
Many individuals with dengue fever experience severe pain behind the eyes, which is one of the more distinctive symptoms of the illness.
A significant number of people with dengue fever complain of muscle and joint pain, often described as "bone-breaking" pain. This, along with the other symptoms, is why the illness is sometimes referred to as "breakbone fever."
A rash usually appears 3 to 4 days after the onset of fever. It may begin as a flush or reddening on the face and spread to the rest of the body. In some cases, the rash can become petechial, which consists of small, red spots caused by minor bleeding under the skin.
Many patients with dengue fever experience nausea and vomiting. This can make it difficult for individuals to retain food and fluids, leading to dehydration.
After the fever subsides, individuals may continue to feel weak and tired for weeks. This prolonged period of fatigue is often called "post-dengue fatigue syndrome."
Some people with dengue fever may experience mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding. This can be a sign of the viral infection affecting the blood vessels.
In some cases, particularly with subsequent infections from different serotypes of the virus, dengue fever can progress into more severe forms of the disease, including Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS).
●Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is characterized by bleeding, low platelet count, and damage to blood vessels, leading to leakage of fluid from the blood vessels. This can cause a drop in blood pressure, resulting in shock.
●Dengue Shock Syndrome is a more extreme form of the disease, marked by a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure, which can result in organ failure and, if untreated, can be fatal.
Both DHF and DSS require immediate medical attention, as they can progress rapidly and become life-threatening if not managed properly.
Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which are most active during the daytime, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. The best way to avoid contracting dengue fever is by taking preventive measures to reduce exposure to mosquitoes and eliminate their breeding sites. Here are some effective strategies to help prevent dengue fever:
Aedes mosquitoes breed in standing water, and eliminating these breeding grounds is one of the most effective ways to prevent dengue.
●Remove stagnant water: Regularly check and empty containers, pots, and water storage containers around your home, such as flower vases, buckets, and discarded tires, where water can accumulate.
●Clean gutters and drains: Ensure that gutters and drains are not clogged with leaves or debris, which can hold water and create mosquito breeding sites.
●Cover or treat water storage containers: If you store water in tanks, ensure they are tightly covered to prevent mosquitoes from accessing the water.
Mosquito repellents are a simple and effective way to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
●Repellents with DEET: Use insect repellents that contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), which is known to effectively repel mosquitoes. Apply it to exposed skin, especially when spending time outdoors.
●Natural alternatives: If you prefer a more natural option, look for products containing picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, both of which can also provide effective mosquito protection.
●Reapply as necessary: Follow the instructions on the product label for reapplication, particularly if you are sweating or swimming.
Mosquitoes that spread dengue fever are most active during the day, so wearing appropriate clothing can help reduce the risk of bites.
●Long sleeves and pants: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to minimize exposed skin. This is particularly important when you're in areas where dengue is common.
●Light-colored clothing: Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so wearing light-colored clothing may help reduce the likelihood of being bitten.
●Insect-repellent clothing: You can also treat clothing with permethrin, a repellent that kills mosquitoes upon contact.
If you live in or are traveling to areas with high dengue risk, sleeping under a mosquito net, especially during the day when mosquitoes are active, can provide additional protection.
●Insecticide-treated nets: Opt for insecticide-treated nets to provide extra protection, particularly in areas where the mosquito population is high.
●Use nets during daytime naps: While Aedes mosquitoes are most active during the day, using a net for daytime rest can further reduce your risk of being bitten.
To keep mosquitoes from entering your home, install screens on all windows and doors.
●Check for holes: Ensure there are no gaps or holes in your screens where mosquitoes could get through.
●Close windows at peak times: Aedes mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, so keep windows and doors closed during these hours to prevent mosquito entry.
If you are planning to travel to a region where dengue fever is common, take additional precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
●Check local health advisories: Before traveling, check if there are any outbreaks or warnings related to dengue in the area. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide valuable travel health information.
●Avoid peak mosquito activity: Aedes mosquitoes are most active during the day, particularly early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Try to limit outdoor activities during these times, or ensure you're fully protected by wearing appropriate clothing and using repellents.