What You Should Know About Dengue Fever
Dengue fever, often referred to as “breakbone fever” due to the intense pain the illness can cause, is a mosquito-borne virus that’s been on the rise globally. While the virus is typically found in tropical climates, dengue fever cases are increasingly being reported within the United States, particularly in warmer states like Hawaii, Florida, Texas, Arizona and North Carolina. This is largely due to the prevalence of Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the dengue fever virus, in these areas. Read on to learn more about dengue fever and find out how you can protect yourself and your loved ones against the virus.
Signs And Symptoms
Dengue fever can present with a wide range of signs and symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose without proper assessment from a healthcare provider. Some common symptoms to watch for include:
- Fever of 104°F or higher
- Severe headaches, typically described as retro-orbital (behind the eyes)
- Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite
- Intense joint and muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Skin rashes
Early detection is vital to preventing serious complications, visit Midwest Express Clinic if you start noticing these symptoms. With over 50 locations open daily across Northwest Indiana and Illinois, our experienced professionals can evaluate and provide treatment.
In more severe cases, dengue fever can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. These are more likely to occur in patients previously infected with a different dengue virus serotype. Patients presenting severe life-threatening symptoms should seek emergency care immediately due to the risks of bleeding and organ failure.
Prevention And Safety
The most effective way to prevent dengue fever is to avoid mosquito bites. While mosquitoes are seemingly inescapable in the summertime, you can still protect yourself with the following prevention measures.
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing picaridin, DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin.
- Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors. This is especially important at dawn and dusk, as these are peak mosquito activity times.
- Keep mosquitoes from entering your home by installing insect screens on windows and doors.
- Eliminate standing water around your property, as these are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you experience symptoms consistent with dengue fever and have recently traveled to a region where the virus is prevalent, or if you live in an area with reported dengue fever cases, seek medical attention as soon as possible. While there is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, rest, hydration and OTC pain relievers can help manage symptoms during recovery.
Visit Midwest Express Clinic for all your non-emergency healthcare needs! To find urgent care near you, visit midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.
