Also referred to as "tropical flu," dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti, and it poses a significant public health challenge in Mauritius. The island's rainy season provides favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, resulting in frequent cases of dengue fever.
What is dengue fever?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, primarily from Aedes mosquitoes. This disease is common in tropical and subtropical regions where mosquito breeding is prevalent. In Mauritius, multiple serotypes of the dengue virus exist, increasing the risk of transmission and reinfection. The main culprits responsible for spreading the disease on the island are mosquitoes of the Aedes genus.
Dengue fever is a viral illness that continues to rise and is now considered a re-emerging disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 50 million cases of dengue fever occur worldwide each year, including 500,000 cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is fatal in over 2.5% of cases. Approximately 2.5 billion people reside in high-risk areas.
Symptoms and complications
Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, muscle and joint pain, headaches, and a rash. In some cases, the disease can progress to a severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, which may result in bleeding, organ dysfunction, and, in severe instances, death. If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention for an accurate diagnosis. Blood tests can be conducted to confirm the presence of the dengue virus in your body.
Preventive measures
Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for dengue fever. Instead, treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms such as fever and pain through appropriate medication.
Nevertheless, the disease can be prevented by taking steps to protect oneself from mosquito bites, as mosquitoes are the primary carriers of the virus.
To achieve this, most health organizations recommend the following methods:
- To prevent dengue fever, it is important to eliminate breeding grounds for mosquitoes by taking measures to remove stagnant water. Regularly empty containers that can collect water, cover water tanks, clean gutters, and get rid of any objects that can accumulate water. The Ministry of Health recommends maintaining your garden, if you have one, by trimming tall grass and hedges and clearing away dead leaves.
- If you reside in a particularly humid area, it is advisable to wear long clothing that covers your exposed limbs. Additionally, you may consider installing screens on your doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out.
- Using mosquito repellent products such as creams, sprays, or lotions is recommended, paying close attention to applying them to your ankles and feet.
- Sleeping under a mosquito net can provide an extra layer of protection. You can enhance its effectiveness by applying repellent on the net as well.
