cause of dengue fever - #19697

Dengue fever is indeed primarily caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, more specifically Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus. It’s completely understandable you’re trying to piece together how your brother contracted it. The key vector here is the mosquito, and human movement into endemic areas can increase the risk of exposure, as these regions are typically breeding grounds for these mosquitoes, particularly in humid and tropical climates. While you noted you didn’t see a lot of mosquito activity, it only takes a single bite from an infected mosquito to transmit the virus. Certain individuals may be more susceptible if they spend more time in areas where these mosquitoes are active, often from dawn to dusk, though they can bite at night too. Protective measures like mosquito repellents, nets, and wearing clothing that covers the skin can offer some protection but aren’t foolproof. It’s important to be vigilant with such measures in endemic regions as prevention is the best approach. Also, viral transmission can sometimes occur in urban environments, not just remote or forested areas. It’s a common misconception that visible symptoms like bites or a lot of bites are necessary for transmission; often, mosquito bites might not leave noticeable marks or cause immediate irritation. To prevent future occurrences, especially when traveling to certain areas, enhance your protective strategies. This includes using effective mosquito repellent containing DEET or picaridin, sleeping under treated nets, and minimizing outdoor activities during peak mosquito activity. Unfortunately, there’s no direct person-to-person spread of dengue, but once a person is bitten by an infected mosquito this risk of it being passed onto others through the same vector increases, so it’s crucial to limit exposure to mosquitoes if someone close to you is currently infected. Keeping the surrounding areas clear of stagnant water helps reduce mosquito breeding spots. While it can be unnerving to confront the uncertainty and risks of travel-related exposure, staying informed and cautious always forms the foundation of effective disease prevention in more vulnerable regions.