Dengue fever

Dengue is a tropical disease transmitted by mosquitoes and caused by dengue virus. The symptoms usually appear three to 14 days after the infection. This may include a high temperature, headache, nausea, muscle and joint aches, and a characteristic rash and itching. Recovery usually takes between two and seven days.

Dengue can be spread by female mosquitoes, primarily Aedes Aegypti. The virus is divided into five serotypes. Infection with one type gives a lifelong immunity, while the other types only give a short-term immunity. The risk of serious complications increases if you are infected with another type.

The European Medicines Agency has approved two types of dengue vaccinations. On 5 December 2022, Qdenga was approved for use in adults, adolescents, and children as young as four years old. Dengvaxia, the 2016 vaccine, is only recommended for individuals who are previously infected or populations with a high prior infection rate by age 9. Other methods of prevention include reducing insect habitats and limiting exposure. Blood transfusions may be necessary in more severe cases. In dengue, paracetamol (acetaminophen), instead of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications), is recommended for pain relief and fever reduction due to the increased risk of bleeding.

In 2017, there was a marked increase in cases. In addition to eliminating mosquitoes, research is underway for medications that target the virus directly. It is classified under neglected tropical diseases.