7 Things You Need To Know About the Dengue Virus
May 9, 2016You would definitely have seen those ubiquitous signs calling for the public to be vigilant about mosquito breeding. You probably even know of someone who’s suffered from dengue fever. Find out more about what dengue is all about, here.
1. Over half of the world’s population is at risk of contracting dengue fever
The virus is found in tropical and sub-tropical areas, especially in urban and semi-urban environments. Before 1970, only nine countries had experienced severe dengue epidemics. Now, the virus is present in over 100 countries, particularly in the Americas, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific region. 70% of global dengue fever cases happen in Asia.
2. The virus is carried by the female Aedes aegypti mosquito
Transmission to humans occurs when they are bitten by this mosquito, after which they become carriers and multipliers of the virus via uninfected mosquitos. Humans can transmit the virus via Aedes mosquitos for four or five days after the first symptoms appear. Aedes mosquitos – unlike other variants – tend to feed early in the morning or at dusk. The mosquito is distinguishable by the black and white stripes on its body.
3. Dengue fever is characterised by flu-like symptoms
Do see your doctor if you have a high fever of 40°C accompanied by two of the following symptoms: nausea, muscle and joint pains, vomiting, swollen lymph nodes (especially in the neck and groin), severe headache, or rashes. These symptoms can last anywhere from two to seven days.
4. The number of Dengue cases in Singapore peaked in 2013
That year alone saw over 22,170 cases reported, with eight people passing away from the disease. However, the numbers are expected to be even higher in 2016, and may even exceed 30,000. This is due to a number of factors, including warmer temperatures and an increase in the Aedes aegypti mosquito population. As such, it’s critical for the public to even more vigilant and proactive in eradicating mosquito clusters.
5. The Dengue and Zika virus are both transmitted by the aedes mosquito
However, they have different symptoms. Dengue is usually characterised by a high fever and severe muscle pain. The Zika virus, on the other hand, does not have particularly characteristic symptoms, although most of its patients have reported skin rashes. A small number may also contract conjunctivitis.
6. The first-ever dengue vaccine has just been released by Sanofi Pasteur
t was approved in the Philippines in December 2015 and it prevents the disease caused by all four dengue types in individuals aged 9 – 45. 25 clinical studies of the vaccine have been done in 15 countries around the world. The vaccine has so far also been approved in Mexico, Brazil and El Salvador.
7. Everyone has a part to play in controlling the spread of dengue
Elimination of mosquito breeding remains a key strategy, especially so as the Aedes mosquitos only require small pools of stagnant water to breed and multiply.
The National Environment Agency (NEA), along with other agencies from the Inter-Agency Dengue Task Force and town councils, checks and eliminates potential mosquito breeding grounds in public areas and housing estates by fogging, oiling drains and then applying larvicide.
There’s also the “5-step Mozzie Wipeout” campaign to educate the public on how they can help stop the spread of dengue. The five steps are:
- Change water in vases/bowls on alternate days
- Turn over all water storage containers
- Remove water from flower pot plates on alternate days
- Cover bamboo pole holders when not in use
- Clear blockages and put insecticide in roof gutters monthly
Those staying in dengue cluster areas are also advised to spray dark corners such as under the bed or around toilets with insecticide to kill adult mosquitos, as well as apply insect repellent to prevent being bitten.