A virus transmitted by mosquitoes called dengue fever causes symptoms such as fever, headache, joint and muscle discomfort, nausea, and rash. As a result of a global annual infection rate of almost 400 million people across more than 120 nations, it has emerged as a worldwide health threat. Dengue can cause more severe forms of the illness, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, which can be fatal when not treated right away even though the majority of cases are mild.
Main Causes of Dengue Fever
1. Mosquito bites: Dengue fever is caused by a virus transmitted by infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti.
2. Poor sanitation: Poor sanitation and inadequate garbage disposal or recycling can create habitats that are ideal for Aedes mosquitoes to lay their eggs and breed.
3. Travel: Dengue fever is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, so travelers may be exposed to the virus if they visit one of these areas.
4. Climate change: Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and other aspects of climate change can create environments where Aedes mosquitoes can survive and thrive.
5. Poor public health responses: An inadequate response from public health authorities can make it difficult to identify and contain outbreaks of dengue fever.
More about Causes of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is caused by four various types of dengue virus, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. These Aedes mosquitoes remains most active during the day specially in the evening, and prefer to live near human habitats, such as urban areas. Therefore, people living in or traveling to tropical and subtropical areas of the world are at greater risk of being infected as compared to other areas.
Climate change is also considered and has been linked with the spread of dengue fever, as the ideal temperature for Aedes mosquitoes to thrive is between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. The mosquitoes are able to survive As temperatures rise, and spread further with increasing the risk of infection.
In addition, poor water and sanitation practices also contribute to the spread of dengue fever in the area, as these conditions are more ideal for mosquito breeding. Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in standing water, such as in buckets, tires, or flower pots, and the larvae can survive for up to 10 days in these areas.
In order to prevent contracting dengue fever, it is important to take some steps to reduce the number of Aedes mosquitoes in your area. This may include eliminating any standing water sources,, disposing old motor vehicle tires, where mosquitoes can breed, using insect repellents, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and using window and door screens. Additionally, it is important to seek medical attention if you develop any symptoms of dengue fever.
Dengue fever is becoming common in many parts of the world increasingly , and it is important to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect yourself. By reducing the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito and seeking medical attention if you develop any symptoms, you can protect yourself and your family from dengue fever.