Image: Canva
Dengue is the most common viral infection in humans in the world that is transmitted by an arthropod which results in a febrile illness
Image: Canva
Humans are the main host for the dengue virus and are infective during the first three days of the illness. This is known as the viremic stage
Image: Canva
Mosquitoes become infective and stay so for the remainder of their life about two weeks after feeding on an infected person
Image: Canva
The mosquito responsible for the transmission of the dengue virus is known as Aedes aegypti and it is known to breed in stagnant water
Image: Canva
Dengue may be non-severe with or without warning signs, or it may be severe. If adequate attention is not paid, non-severe may turn into severe dengue
Image: Canva
Non-severe dengue may be suspected in individuals who have travelled to an endemic area or who present with nausea, vomiting or rashes
Image: Canva
Warning signs like abdominal pain, tenderness, vomiting that persists, lethargy or restlessness and enlargement of the liver should not be ignored
Image: Canva
In case of severe dengue, excessive plasma leakage can lead to shock, respiratory distress, severe bleeding and changes in the levels of the liver enzymes
Image: Canva
Laboratory tests like a complete blood count, liver function tests, blood glucose, serum electrolytes and renal function tests must be done
Image: Canva
Most importantly, avoid stagnation of water in or around your place. Prevent collection of water in containers and clean water-based air coolers regularly