Dengue fever is the most common and important viral illness in humans. It is estimated that half of world population in tropical countries like India are at risk. It is a self-limited disease when detected early. In case of complications, it can become life-threatening and mortality rate can be as high as 20 per cent. There are more than 100 million new cases of dengue fever every year throughout the world.
Patient usually starts with early symptoms of decrease in appetite, fever, headache behind the eyes, body ache, knee and shoulder pain, skin rash, nausea and vomiting. Dengue symptoms usually last for 2 to 7 days. If condition worsens, it can develop into low blood pressure, liver damage, generalised bleeding, and shock. Haemorrhagic transformation is a major complication which can lead to death if prompt action not taken.
Dengue fever is spread by transmission of virus by bite of an infected mosquito. In case of minor symptom, it can be treated symptomatically. If patient starts to have any complication like altered mental status, low blood pressure, breathing or bleeding trouble, he must be hospitalised for prompt treatment. Admitted patient will undergo blood test including complete blood count, electrolytes, liver function and kidney function, coagulation profile, etc. Special test to detect immunoglobulin G or M antibody may or may not be available in local hospital. Most treatment will be based on general symptoms and complications.
Breeding of mosquitoes and poor sanitation condition continues to exist and has not been addressed for a long time. In some of the areas, poor sanitation is neglected for years without any measures. People get used to this condition and stop complaining. They themselves keep adding to the problem by throwing garbage close to their home or living areas.
According to literature, there is no vaccine available in India but available in other countries like Brazil and Philippines. The best way to deal with this issue is prevention. Solution requires major efforts on part of common citizens, civic leaders and government officials working together to solve this chronic menace.
[DR. ANIS ANSARI is Board certified in Internal Medicine and Nephrology, in USA]