Introduction:
Dengue fever is a growing concern in India and many tropical/subtropical regions. As your trusted health-information partner, we’d like to walk you through what dengue is, why it matters, and how you and your family can stay safer.
What is Dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes — primarily the Aedes aegypti mosquito. World Health Organization+1
In India, the disease has been increasing steadily in incidence, driven by factors such as urbanisation, poor water drainage, and favourable mosquito breeding environments. PMC+2ScienceDirect+2
It is sometimes called “break-bone fever” because of the intense joint/muscle pain it can cause. Gavi+1
Signs & Symptoms:
Common symptoms:
- Sudden high fever Nat Centre for Vector Borne Diseases+1
- Severe headache, especially frontal region Nat Centre for Vector Borne Diseases+1
- Pain behind the eyes worsened by eye movement Nat Centre for Vector Borne Diseases
- Joint and muscle pain, loss of appetite, rash on chest/arms Nat Centre for Vector Borne Diseases
- Nausea/vomiting may also appear. Nat Centre for Vector Borne Diseases
Warning signs of severe dengue (requiring urgent care): abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums/nose, cold/clammy skin, restlessness. Cleveland Clinic
Why is Dengue a Concern in India?
- India carries a high burden of dengue, being among the world’s highly endemic countries. World Health Organization+1
- Studies estimate that among clinically suspected patients in India, about 38.3% were confirmed dengue infections. PMC
- Rapid urbanisation, heavy rains, humid climate and accumulation of stagnant water create ideal breeding grounds for vector mosquitoes. BioMed Central+1
Prevention & What You Can Do:
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites: Remove standing water in plant pots, buckets, tyres, drains. Cover water storage.
- Use protective measures: Mosquito nets, window/door screens, repellents on exposed skin.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Long sleeves and pants during early morning and evening when mosquitoes are active.
- Keep surroundings clean: Clear debris, ensure proper drainage and avoid water stagnation.
- Be alert after a bite: If you develop fever + any of the symptoms above, seek medical advice promptly.
Treatment & What to Do If You Suspect Dengue:
- There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue; care is supportive (rest, fluids, paracetamol for pain/fever). Cleveland Clinic
- Avoid medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen as they may increase risk of bleeding. Cleveland Clinic
- If you show warning signs of severe dengue, go to hospital immediately.
Conclusion:
Dengue is preventable and manageable if caught early. With awareness and action — both at the household and community level — we can reduce the risk and protect ourselves, our families and our neighbourhoods. Remember: the biggest control starts right at home..
