Dengue Fever: Understanding Prevention and Treatment
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue Fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. In Thailand, the disease is most prevalent during the rainy season, particularly from June to September. Young children, adolescents, and the elderly are among the high-risk groups requiring heightened vigilance.
Signs and Symptoms
The clinical presentation of dengue fever can vary and often resembles common viral infections in the early stages. Key symptoms to watch for include:
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Sudden high fever (39–40°C) lasting 2–7 days
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Severe headache and retro-orbital pain (pain behind the eyes)
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Muscle aches, joint pain, or abdominal pain
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Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting
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Possible skin rash or petechiae (small red or purple spots due to bleeding under the skin)
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In severe cases, patients may develop Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), a potentially life-threatening condition
Diagnosis and Management
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on supportive care and close monitoring for complications. The key aspects of treatment include:
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Appropriate Fluid Replacement
To prevent dehydration and plasma leakage, which can lead to shock. -
Fever Management
Use paracetamol instead of aspirin, as aspirin increases the risk of bleeding. -
Close Clinical Monitoring
Particularly during days 3 to 7 of illness, when patients are at higher risk for severe complications.
Prevention: Stopping the Cycle at its Source
Vector control is the cornerstone of dengue prevention. Effective strategies include:
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Eliminating Mosquito Breeding Sites
Keep water containers covered, change water in vases weekly, and apply abate sand granules (temephos) to stagnant water sources. -
Preventing Mosquito Bites
Apply mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, use mosquito nets, and install window and door screens. -
Promoting the “3 Keeps, 3 Diseases Prevention” Campaign
This nationwide initiative encourages:-
Keeping the house clean
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Keeping garbage properly disposed of
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Keeping water storage containers tightly sealed
These measures help prevent dengue fever, Chikungunya fever, and Zika virus infection.
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