Dengue Hemorrhagic fever is a potentially fatal and severe infection that is spread by Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes found in certain parts of the world. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), over 100 million cases of dengue fever pop up every year. With proper treatment, it is possible to survive this infection, however it is essential to know its causes, symptoms and methods of treatment.
Causes
According to the NIH, there are four dengue viruses that can cause dengue hemorrhagic fever. In general, this infection occurs when people catch a different type of dengue virus after they have been infected by one dengue virus in the past, according to the NLH. Of the 100 million cases of dengue fever that occur in the world each year, only a few of these cases turn into dengue hemorrhagic fever. Dengue fever generally results when a person is bitten by an infected mosquito.
Risks
People who have developed antibodies to the dengue virus from prior dengue viral infections, those who are younger than 12, female, and caucasion are at greater risk for developing dengue hemorrhagic fever, according to the NIH. Those traveling to tropical urban areas in the world or whom reside in those areas are also great risk for this infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Symptoms
When a person is infected with Dengue Hemorrhagic fever they may experience symptoms of dengue fever, such as decreased appetite, fever, muscle aches, and vomiting, according to the NIH. However, after a few days, an infected person usually becomes sweaty, restless, irritable and enters into a state of shock. People with this illness may also experienced a rash, red eyes and throat, a weak pulse, enlarged liver and low blood pressure, according to the NIH. Severe headaches, fever and hemorrhaging that can lead to death can also result, according to the CDC.
Treatment
If someone has symptoms of this type of fever, it is recommended that they seek emergency treatment immediately. According to the NIH, there is no cure, but if symptoms are treated quickly, the person infected can still survive. Treatment can include blood transfusions, IV fluids and oxygen therapy. If symptoms are not treated, the person can experience seizures, shock and liver and brain damage according to the NIH.
Prevention/Solution
Dengue Hemorrhagic fever can be prevented by taking extra precautions around mosquitoes when visiting tropical areas of the world. Using mosquito repellents, sleeping surrounded by mosquito nets, and wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants are good precautions to take to prevent transmission of this infection.
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