Due to the increasing number of cases Puerto Rico announced an epidemic of Dengue, the officials gave this information on Monday.
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Puerto Rico announced an Epidemic of Dengue
The Health Secretary made a declaration on Monday, stating that Dengue has become an epidemic due to its rapid increase in cases. This is not the first time they have done so, as back in 2012, they had also announced an epidemic of Dengue.
WHO reports a steady rise in cases over the years, with numbers soaring from 505,430 in 2000 to a staggering 5 million in 2023.
What is Dengue?
Dengue, also known as dengue fever, is an illness that occurs when an infected mosquito bites you. You might notice symptoms starting as early as the 2nd day which can last upto 4-9 days. Even if the illness is not too serious and can be easily treated, in extreme situations, it can result in death.
Dengue’s symptoms
In most instances of mild cases, the symptoms are not excessively severe, such as high fever, headache, rashes, muscle pain, joint pain, weakness, and so on. These symptoms can be effectively managed at home with proper care. However, in severe cases, symptoms like intense abdominal pain, rapid breathing, nosebleeds, vomiting blood, and severe headache cannot be addressed at home. In such situations, professional medical attention is necessary.
Dengue poses a greater threat when it reoccurs in an individual for the second time. In areas where the disease is prevalent, there exists a vaccine known as Dengvaxia, specifically designed for individuals who have previously contracted dengue at least once.
Transmission of Dengue
The Dengue virus can transmitted to humans through the bite of a female mosquito. Additionally, a mosquito can acquire the virus by biting an infected human. This virus has the potential to spread through just one mosquito bite, impacting not only humans and but also mammals.
The virus was initially identified in the 1780s, however, over the last 15-20 years, it has escalated in severity resulting in the deaths of thousands. Several outbreaks were 2005 dengue outbreak in Singapore, 2006 dengue outbreak in India, 2006 dengue outbreak in Pakistan, 2009 Bolivian dengue fever epidemic, and 2019 dengue fever epidemic.
Treatment and Recovery
The primary and crucial step is to avoid the onset of the illness. It is a well-known fact that prevention is more effective than cure. According to WHO to avoid the disease:
- Wear clothes that cover your whole body
- Keeps your surroundings clean
- Use mosquito repellents
In the event of contracting the illness:
- Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) for pain
- Proper Rest
- Drink plenty of liquids
- Contact your doctor if severe symptoms occur.
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