How to control dengue outbreak?

Question

Hello doctor,

As a concerned resident, I am alarmed by recent reports of dengue fever in our area. I always thought this was primarily a problem in Asian countries, but now it seems to be here. Can you explain how the dengue virus spreads and what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends for prevention? What are the symptoms we should watch out for? Are our local mosquitoes capable of transmitting this virus, or is it mainly from travelers? What steps are taken to control this outbreak? Should we be worried about a large-scale epidemic, and how does our risk compare to tropical regions? What can I do to protect my family?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Dengue transmission: Dengue virus spreads primarily through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes can also transmit Zika and chikungunya. They become infected by biting a person with dengue and can then transmit the virus to others.

CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommendations:

Apply repellents with DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), Picaridin (insect repellant), IR3535 (Ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate), or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
Opt for long-sleeved shirts and long pants as protective clothing.
Use screens on windows and doors, and use air conditioning if available. Sleep under mosquito nets if needed to keep it out.
Regularly check for and eliminate standing water around your home, which are mosquito breeding grounds.

Symptoms appear four to ten days after being bitten and can include:

High fever.
Severe headache.
Pain behind the eyes.
Joint and muscle pain.
Nausea and vomiting.
Skin rash.
Mild bleeding (nose or gum bleed, easy bruising).
Severe cases can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.
Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes can transmit dengue in your region. Local transmission can occur if a mosquito bites an infected traveler and then another person.

Steps taken in your region:

Increasing mosquito surveillance and control, educating the public, and collaborating with health agencies to track and manage dengue cases.
The risk of a large-scale epidemic in your region is lower than in tropical regions due to less favorable conditions and effective public health measures.

To protect your family:

Use repellents on exposed skin and clothing.
Wear long sleeves and pants.
Ensure windows and doors have screens.
Eliminate standing water around your home.
Stay informed and follow health advisories.

I hope you find this information helpful.

Thank you.