Steps to Overcome the Risk of Dengue Fever
Definition
Dengue fever is a disease transmitted by the bite of a mosquito called Aedes aegypti. It remains a major public health issue in Indonesia, with one of the highest transmission rates among Southeast Asian countries.
Causes
The cause of dengue fever is the dengue virus transmitted through the Aedes aegypti mosquito. When the mosquito bites a human, the virus enters the body. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is characterized by a dark black color with two vertical white lines on its back and horizontal white stripes on its legs. These mosquitoes are active mainly from morning to afternoon, though they sometimes bite at night. They are more often found in cool, dark homes than in hot outdoor areas.
Risk factors for dengue fever include living in or traveling to tropical and subtropical areas. High-risk areas include Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Latin America, and Africa. Additionally, having a history of previous dengue virus infection increases the risk of experiencing more severe symptoms when contracting dengue fever again. Children under 15 years old also have a higher risk of contracting dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of dengue fever include:
- Sudden high fever up to 39 degrees Celsius
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Pain behind the eyes, in muscles, and bones
- Red skin rash
- Difficulty eating and drinking
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bleeding gums
- Nosebleeds
- Red spots on the skin
- Vomiting blood
- Black stools
In the critical phase, body temperature drops and the body feels cold, even though the patient may feel recovered. However, caution is advised as dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening, may occur.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of dengue fever involves physical examination and laboratory blood tests. Physical examination is conducted to observe clinical signs such as high fever and plasma leakage signs. A tourniquet test may also be performed to check for petechiae (small red spots) on the inner arms. Blood tests are conducted to assess white and red blood cell counts and detect dengue virus antigens and antibodies.
Treatment
Treatment for dengue fever includes:
- Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, either orally or intravenously if necessary.
- Patients are advised to have complete rest and use compresses to reduce fever.
- Symptomatic medications such as fever reducers (e.g., paracetamol) and anti-nausea medications can be given to relieve symptoms.
- Always consult a doctor for appropriate management.
Prevention
To prevent dengue fever, the following steps can be taken:
- Draining water storage containers
- Covering water storage containers
- Burying used items
- Keeping the house clean
- Using mosquito lotion or repellent
- Conducting mosquito spraying or fogging
- Using a mosquito net while sleeping
- Installing mosquito screens on house vents
- Wearing long-sleeved and light-colored clothing
- Vaccination for dengue in children aged 9-16 years
Dengue Vaccine
The dengue vaccine, known as Dengvaxia, is available to help prevent dengue fever. It is recommended for children aged 9-16 years who have previously been infected with the dengue virus. Administering the Dengvaxia vaccine can reduce the risk of severe dengue fever. However, this vaccine is not recommended for those who have never been infected with the dengue virus, as it may increase the risk of experiencing more severe symptoms if infected after vaccination.
Complications
Complications of dengue fever that need attention include:
- Nosebleeds
- Bleeding gums
- Subcutaneous bleeding
- Black vomit
- Coughing up blood
- Black stools
- Low blood pressure
- Weak pulse
- Cold body
- Decreased urination frequency
- Shortness of breath
- Decreased consciousness
- Dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can be fatal
If experiencing symptoms such as a fever lasting three days and activity disturbances, it is recommended to see a doctor and undergo a blood test.
Source:
Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia: (https://ayosehat.kemkes.go.id/topik/demam-berdarah-dengue)