Many countries of the world have been in the grip of a serious mosquito-borne disease for the last few months. According to a report published in WebMD, dengue cases have reached record levels in many popular travel destinations globally this year. Known as breakbone fever or dengue fever, this disease can also be fatal in severe conditions, due to which an alert has been issued.
Experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say dengue can cause serious health problems. It also poses a risk of organ failure along with serious complications such as damage to blood vessels in victims, so it should not be taken lightly.
According to the CDC report, 745 US travelers have already been diagnosed with dengue fever this year. The virus has infected about 1,500 people in Puerto Rico, US, due to which officials there have declared a public health emergency.
CDC issued alert
According to the latest data of CDC, from 2010 to 2017, the average number of annual dengue cases in the US was 626. The highest risk of this has been seen in those people who have traveled to dengue-affected states or live in such places.
It is worth noting that if dengue is not taken care of in time, it can lead to the risk of internal bleeding. Health experts have said that in places where dengue cases are increasing, there is a need to take special precautions for prevention.
People have been cautioned in India as well. Monsoon has started in India and this season is considered most favorable for mosquito breeding. According to media reports, an increase in dengue cases is being recorded in many cities of Maharashtra and nearby areas even before the monsoon this year. Even before the onset of monsoon, dengue has been diagnosed in about 1800 people in Maharashtra till May this year. The number of infected people has also been seen increasing in hospitals.
Health experts have expressed apprehension that dengue cases may increase even more during the rainy season, due to which all people need to be cautious from now onwards.
How to prevent dengue? In an alert issued by the CDC, it has been said that if anyone shows symptoms of dengue fever or has recently traveled to dengue-affected areas, then consult a doctor and get tested.
Symptoms can vary in every person infected with the virus. Along with fever, there may be problems like nausea, vomiting, rashes on the body, muscle and joint pain or headache. Getting timely supportive treatment can prevent the symptoms from becoming severe.
How to prevent dengue? Health experts say there is no specific treatment for dengue. Those infected are given supportive treatments to reduce symptoms. All people should continue to make efforts to prevent dengue. Mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus are most active from dawn to dusk, but they can also bite at night. Wear protective clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
To prevent mosquitoes from breeding, do not allow dirt or water to accumulate around the house.
Prevent water from accumulating in pots, cooler water or empty vessels.
Keep taking continuous measures to increase the body's immunity.
(PC: ISTOCK)
