Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus, which is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, especially Aedes aegypti.

Symptoms of dengue fever can vary widely, ranging from mild to severe, and they usually appear 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The severity of the symptoms often depends on whether the infection is the first exposure (primary infection) or a subsequent exposure to a different dengue virus serotype (secondary infection).

There are four dengue virus serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4), and having immunity to one serotype does not provide protection against the others, and in fact, a subsequent infection with a different serotype can lead to more severe symptoms.

Common symptoms of dengue fever include:

1. High Fever: Sudden onset of a high fever, often reaching up to 104°F (40°C).
2. Severe Headache: Intense headache, often localized behind the eyes.
3. Pain and Joint Aches: Severe joint and muscle pain, which is why dengue fever is often referred to as “breakbone fever.”
4. Rash: A rash that usually appears a few days after the onset of fever. It is typically a bright red rash that can spread to most parts of the body.
5. Fatigue: Profound fatigue and weakness, lasting for several weeks.
6. Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, and sometimes abdominal pain.
7. Mild Bleeding: Symptoms of mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or easy bruising, can occur.

In some cases, dengue fever can progress to a more severe form called dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). These conditions are characterized by a rapid drop in platelet count, which can lead to bleeding and shock.

Warning signs for severe dengue include persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, breathing difficulty, bleeding gums, fatigue, restlessness, and fluid accumulation.

If you suspect you have dengue fever, it’s important to seek medical attention, especially if you’re in an area where dengue is prevalent. There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue, so management usually involves supportive care to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Preventing dengue involves measures to control mosquito populations and protect yourself from mosquito bites, such as using mosquito repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and using bed nets. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites, such as standing water, around your home is also crucial in preventing the spread of dengue.

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