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Infectious Illnesses
Question #18236
72 days ago
143

reasons for dengue - #18236

Rashi

I am really worried about my health right now. Last month, I went on vacation to a tropical place and I thought I was being careful about mosquitos, but I started feeling sick. I had fevers, severe headaches, and then really painful joint and muscle aches. It was dreadful! After going to a local clinic, they tested me and confirmed I had dengue. I mean, I get that mosquitos are a big part of the reasons for dengue infection, but I really wanna know more about this. What are the actual reasons for dengue? Like, are there specific types of mosquitos that cause it or is it just any mosquito? I thought I was doing everything right, using repellent and wearing long sleeves — but now I’m thinking maybe I didn’t do enough. Could standing water near my hotel have been a problem? Are there certain projects or activities that increase the reasons for dengue outbreaks in specific places? I'm just trying to understand it all better. Shoud I worry about getting it again, or is there something I can do to avoid this compeletely in the future? I could really use some advice from people who know more about the reasons for dengue, thanks!

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Doctors' responses

Dengue fever is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, specifically the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito species is well-known for its ability to transmit dengue viruses and they typically thrive in and near human dwellings. They are most active during the day, especially at dawn and dusk. Both Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are capable of transmitting dengue, so it’s definitely specific types of mosquitoes rather than any mosquito in general. As for the preventative measures, it sounds like you were doing a lot right by using repellent and wearing protective clothing. However, standing water is indeed a major contributor to mosquito breeding, and even small amounts like in flower pots or discarded containers can become a breeding ground. In areas where dengue is common, poorly managed water projects, rapid urbanization, and inadequate waste disposal can worsen the situation by providing ample breeding sites for mosquitoes. While there’s no specific treatment for dengue itself, maintaining hydration and managing fever is crucial. To reduce the risk of future infection, continue using repellents, wear long sleeves when possible, use bed nets, and ensure there are no water accumulations around your living area. Regarding reinfection, once infected by one serotype of the dengue virus, you develop immunity to that specific serotype, but it’s possible to be infected by other serotypes, so staying vigilant, especially when traveling to endemic areas, is important. There’s also a vaccine available in some countries for individuals with prior dengue infection, but it’s not universally applicable and should be discussed with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s appropriate for you.

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