Does Dengue Cause Death?
October 20, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, dengue fever can cause death, particularly in severe cases. Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus. While the majority of dengue cases result in mild symptoms, some individuals can develop severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.
Severe dengue can be life-threatening due to the following complications:
- Severe bleeding: Severe dengue can cause a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood (thrombocytopenia), leading to bleeding from the nose, gums, or under the skin.
- Plasma leakage: Severe dengue can result in the leakage of plasma from blood vessels, leading to reduced blood volume and shock.
- Organ failure: In severe cases, dengue can lead to organ failure, which can be fatal.
Early detection and proper medical care are crucial in managing severe dengue and preventing death. Patients with severe dengue often require hospitalization and supportive treatment to address the complications associated with the disease.
Preventing dengue primarily involves reducing mosquito exposure and controlling mosquito populations, as there is currently no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. In regions where dengue is endemic, public health measures such as mosquito control and public awareness campaigns are important for reducing the spread of the virus.