Book an appointment at BlueNetHOSPITALS Los Cabos easily via Whatsapp and save time.
Internal Medicine

Understanding Dengue: A Comprehensive Guide

Dengue prevention focuses on reducing mosquito populations and avoiding their bites

Understanding Dengue: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Dengue?

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily by the Aedes aegypti species. It's prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including Los Cabos, affecting individuals of all ages, especially children and the elderly.



Symptoms of Dengue

Common signs include:

  • High fever

  • Severe headache

  • Muscle and joint pain

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Skin rash

  • Fatigue

  • Minor bleeding (nose or gum bleeding, easy bruising)


These symptoms typically emerge 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.


In severe cases, dengue can lead to:

  • Severe dengue: Shock, severe bleeding, and organ failure.

  • Dengue shock syndrome: Decreased blood pressure and weak pulse.



Causes of Dengue

Dengue is caused by infection with one of the four dengue viruses. The disease is not transmitted from person to person but only through the bite of Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.



Risk Factors

  • Living in or traveling to dengue-prone areas.

  • Previous dengue infection.

  • Being pregnant or having a compromised immune system.


Rainy seasons and humidity increase mosquito populations, thus elevating the risk of transmission.



Complications of Dengue

While most dengue cases are mild, some infections can progress to severe complications if not treated timely. Complications include:

  • Internal bleeding

  • Organ damage

  • Shock

  • Death



Preventing Dengue

Dengue prevention focuses on reducing mosquito populations and avoiding their bites. The best way to prevent dengue is to avoid mosquito bites:

  • Use mosquito repellent containing DEET or IR3535.

  • Wear clothing that covers most of the skin.

  • Install mosquito nets on windows and doors.

  • Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (standing water) at home.



Mosquito Control at Home

To control mosquitoes inside and around your home, we recommend:

  • Empty containers holding standing water (puddles, pots, pet water bowls).

  • Change water in vases and containers every 3 days.

  • Keep water tanks covered.

  • Clean gutters and downspouts.

  • Use larvicides in water containers that cannot be emptied.



When should I contact the Doctor because of Dengue?

If you show symptoms of dengue, visit the ER at BlueNetHospitals. Our Emergency and Internal Medicine specialists are highly trained to diagnose and treat dengue effectively.


Remember:

  • Dengue is a serious disease that can be prevented.

  • Follow recommendations to avoid mosquito bites.

  • If you show symptoms of dengue, seek emergency care at BlueNetHospitals.




BlueNetHospitals

BlueNet Hospitals - Blue Net Hospitals