Dengue Fever
Symptoms
Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus. Many infected people do not develop any symptoms. When symptoms appear, they usually begin 4 to 10 days after infection, start suddenly, and generally last 2 to 7 days. They resemble flu-like illness, with sudden fever, headache, joint-and-muscle pain as well as nausea and/or vomiting. A skin rash may appear a few days after the onset of fever.
A more severe form of the disease can also occur, most often during a second infection with a different one of the four dengue virus types. Without proper treatment, this severe form can be life-threatening.
Transmission
Dengue fever is mainly found in urban areas of many tropical countries. It is transmitted by the bite of an Aedes mosquito, which can bite at any time of the day. These mosquitoes are commonly found near homes and even inside them.
Immunization
There is currently no vaccine available in Canada to protect against dengue. No country imposes entry restrictions related to this disease.
Prevention
Typical anti-mosquito precautions are essential: insect repellent, mosquito netting, and light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Treatment
Treatment consists of rest, good hydration, and acetaminophen as needed. Do not administer Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., ibuprofen) because it may aggravate the bleeding tendency associated with some dengue infections.