Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Signs Symptoms and Prevention

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) generally peaks between January and March of every year and it usually coincides with a change in season.

The cause of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a dengue virus. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans by an infected female Aedes mosquito, more particularly Aedes Aegypti. These mosquitoes typically breed in standing water of mostly man-made containers in or close to the home. Aedes aegypti is a daytime feeder; its peak biting periods are early in the morning and in the evening before dusk. Female Aedes aegypti bites multiple people during each feeding period.

Prevention of Dengue

Killing mosquitoes through fogging or mosquito repellents is not an absolute method of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever prevention since neither of these will affect the larvae stage. Therefore the most appropriate method to prevent dengue fever is to eradicate the larvae as follows:

• Drain water storage containers (tub, drum, etc) once a week.
• Close water storage containers tightly after use to avoid mosquitoes from entering and breeding.
• Change water in flower vases and pots every day.
• Discard or bury any plastic containers, bottles, cans, or any used items which could collect rainwater.
• In the event that it is not possible to drain the water weekly from reservoirs or storage containers, sprinkle larvacide (i.e. Abate powder) into the water to kill the larvae. Repeat this once every 2-3 months. 
• Another alternative is keeping larvae-eating guppy fish in the storage containers.
• Continuously and actively observe, monitor, and eradicate the larvae.

Furthermore, there are some activities that might keep us away from adult mosquitoes as cause of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, such as:

• Install mosquito nets on windows or other ventilation,
• Eliminate places for adult mosquitoes to hide, such as clothes hanging on the backs of chairs, doors, etc.
• Provides sufficient room lighting and ventilation.
• Use mosquito nets around bed when sleeping.

The Use of Larvacide (Abate powder) to Prevent Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Again, to prevent Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever we can apply abate powder. It can be purchased at the local pharmacy. Water treated with Abate is safe to drink if standard disinfecting precautions are taken. One gram of Abate powder should be added to every 10 liters of water, therefore 10 grams of powder is necessary for 100 liters of water and so forth. If you are unable to measure the exact amount, you can use a spoon. One pressed-tablespoon (where the top surface is leveled) will be equal to 10 grams of Abate.

Signs and Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Everyone is at risk for Dengue Fever. Be alert of the following signs and symptoms of Dengue:

• High fever (40˚ C) for 2 – 7 days
• Headache
• Joint and muscle pain
• Pain behind the eyes
• Stomach problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Occasional nosebleeds or passing of black stools
• Occasional pain in the epigastric or upper stomach area
• In severe cases the patient my appear anxious and be sweating while having cold hands and feet

What should be done if symptoms and signs occur?

If Dengue Fever symptoms and signs occur, do take following actions:

• Keep well hydrated.
• Sponge down with a moist cold towel.
• Take fever reducing medication (paracetamol or acetaminophen – NO ASPIRIN or NSAIDs).
• Urgently seek medical attention from the doctor, clinic, or hospital, especially if the patient appears cold and clammy.

The important thing is how to prevent and avoid from mosquito bites as transmitter for Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever.