In a press release on November 8th, the Health Services Authority of the Cayman Islands confirmed fifteen cases of dengue fever in the country since October. Other potential cases are suspected and samples are undergoing testing. The majority of the confirmed cases appeared in people who had not recently travelled.
The Source of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is not contagious between people. This virus can only be transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. The cycle continues when another mosquito bites an infected person. Now contagious, it flies on to bite other people.
The best way to avoid contracting dengue is reducing exposure to mosquitos. Bug repellent and avoiding areas with lots of mosquitos are both important. Making your home and yard inhospitable for mosquitos by eliminating sources of stagnant water is also valuable.
Detecting Symptoms
A week or even two can pass before an infected mosquito’s bite causes symptoms. The first signs may look similar to the flu. Three telltale indicators set this disease apart, giving them the name “dengue triad.” They consist of a red skin rash, a fever, and headaches, especially with pain behind the eyes.
Be on the lookout for the following dengue symptoms:
- Waves of high fever
- Headaches and pain behind the eyes
- Pain in muscles, joints, and bones
- Bodily rash of red spots
Because of the risk of further spread, it is important to rule out dengue fever and so it is advisable to visit your doctor if you experience symptoms.
Most people recover fairly quickly, finding these symptoms are gone within a week or two but on average, for every twenty people with dengue fever symptoms, one will progress to the more severe dengue hemorrhagic fever. This potentially fatal condition requires immediate medical attention.
Dengue hemorrhagic fever symptoms include:
- Vomiting and diarrhea (may contain blood)
- Convulsions
- Bruising
- Bleeding in the nose or gums
Signs most often appear one or two days after the initial fever has subsided. People recovering from dengue fever should stay vigilant during that time.
Treatment of Dengue
Dengue fever is caused by a virus. This means it does not respond to antibiotics. Instead, care involves managing uncomfortable or dangerous symptoms. Anyone with the disease can take measures to stay safe and feel better. Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Visit a medical professional who can monitor symptoms.
For pain relief, choose Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), rather than ibuprofen or aspirin, which can worsen any potential bleeding. Those with more severe disease may need to receive supportive care in hospital.
