Dengue Quiz
Test your knowledge about Dengue fever.
Understanding Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. This quiz covers essential knowledge about its transmission, symptoms, prevention, and treatment, which is crucial for public health awareness and personal safety in affected regions.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes. It is widespread throughout the tropics, with local variations in risk that are influenced by climate parameters as well as social and environmental factors. Dengue causes a wide spectrum of disease, ranging from a mild flu-like illness to a severe, potentially fatal condition.
Transmission and the Aedes Mosquito
The primary vector that transmits the disease is the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito is a daytime feeder; its peak biting periods are early in the morning and in the evening before dusk. The virus is transmitted from an infected person to a mosquito, and after an incubation period in the mosquito, it can be transmitted to other humans.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Dengue
Symptoms usually begin 4–10 days after infection and last for 2–7 days. Recognizing these signs early is key to managing the illness and preventing complications.
- High fever (40°C/104°F)
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pains
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swollen glands or a widespread rash
Warning Signs of Severe Dengue: Watch for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums or nose, fatigue, restlessness, and blood in vomit or stool. These are signs of a medical emergency and require immediate hospital care.
The Four Serotypes of Dengue Virus
There are four distinct, but closely related, serotypes of the virus that cause dengue (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4). Recovery from infection by one provides lifelong immunity against that particular serotype. However, cross-immunity to the other serotypes is only partial and temporary. Subsequent infections by other serotypes increase the risk of developing severe dengue.
Prevention: The Best Defense
Without a specific cure, prevention is the most effective strategy against dengue. The primary method is to control the mosquito population and avoid bites.
- Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by emptying, cleaning, or covering containers that can hold water.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Use mosquito nets and screens on windows and doors.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Dengue is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the virus or antibodies. There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Medical care is supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms. Patients are advised to rest, stay hydrated, and use acetaminophen (paracetamol) for pain relief. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided as they can increase the risk of bleeding complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get Dengue more than once?
Yes. There are four different serotypes of the dengue virus. Infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity to that specific serotype but only temporary protection against the others. A second infection with a different serotype increases the risk of developing severe dengue.
What should I do if I suspect I have Dengue?
You should seek medical advice immediately. Early diagnosis and proper medical care can lower fatality rates of severe dengue to below 1%. It’s important to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and control fever with paracetamol.
Is there a universally recommended vaccine for Dengue?
A vaccine, Dengvaxia®, is licensed for use in some countries for people aged 9–45 years living in areas with high dengue prevalence. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends it primarily for individuals who have had a previous dengue infection. Its use is complex, and it is not a general-purpose travel vaccine.
How is Dengue different from Malaria or Zika?
All are mosquito-borne, but they are caused by different pathogens. Dengue and Zika are caused by viruses (Flaviviruses), while Malaria is caused by a parasite (Plasmodium). While some symptoms overlap (fever, headache), they have distinct features. For example, Malaria often involves cyclical fevers and chills, while Zika is often milder but has been linked to birth defects.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
I am a Registered Pharmacist under the Pharmacy Act, 1948, and the founder of PharmacyFreak.com. I hold a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Rungta College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research. With a strong academic foundation and practical knowledge, I am committed to providing accurate, easy-to-understand content to support pharmacy students and professionals. My aim is to make complex pharmaceutical concepts accessible and useful for real-world application.
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