Is Dengue Caused by Virus?
September 5, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, dengue is caused by a virus called the dengue virus. The dengue virus is a member of the Flaviviridae family and is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe and potentially life-threatening forms of the disease. Common symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding tendencies such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding. In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which are characterized by severe bleeding, organ failure, and a significant drop in blood pressure.
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, so supportive care is provided to manage symptoms and complications. Preventive measures to reduce the risk of dengue infection include mosquito control efforts (eliminating breeding sites, using insecticides, and using mosquito nets or repellents), as well as vaccination in some regions where dengue is endemic.
Dengue is a significant public health concern in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world, and efforts to control mosquito populations and prevent dengue outbreaks are crucial for reducing the burden of this disease.