This is an infection from a type of virus known as a flavivirus, which is spread by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. 

 

Unlike the mosquitos that are seen in the evening and at night, the aedes egypt mosquito comes out in the day time, so it is important that you protect your self from  getting bitten by one of these mosquitoes. 

 

Dengue Fever usually occurs in two phases - the initial fever, accompanied by a skin rash, usually settles after a few days only to return (usually not so severely) along with a second rash before finally disappearing again.

 

Dengue fever can cause severe pain in the bones, muscles and joints.  Most incidences of dengue fever don’t lead to any permanent harm, but the virus can cause blood vessels to become leaky or problems with abnormal clotting of the blood known as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which result in haemorrhage or bleeding from the gums, nose and various organs, along with clotting problems.

 

This is known as dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) which can be fatal. 

 

Another serious complication, known as dengue shock syndrome (DSS) can also occur and can be fatal.

 

​Symptoms of Dengue Fever

 

• Headaches

• Fever

• Pain Behind the Eye Balls

• Skin rash

• Bleeding gums

• Joint and muscle pain

 

Quick facts To Help prevent Dengue Fever

• Keep your surroundings (home, work and school) clean

• Be aware of new surroundings

• Get rid of areas where mosquitoes breed such as standing water in flower pots, discarded tyres, old bottles and containers etc.

• Use an effective mosquito repellant.

• If possible use protective screens at windows and doors and keep them repaired

• Dress in protective clothing if the area you are in is prone to mosquitoes. 

 

Treatment

Unlike the mosquito that carries malaria, which bites in the evening or at night, the mosquito that carries dengue (Aedes aegypti) bites during the day, so it's vital to protect yourself against mosquito bites during this time. 

 

If you think your child has dengue fever, please take your child to a doctor.  The child should also be given plenty  fluids, and resting is very important.   Never take Aspirin if you think you have dengue fever!