Dengue Fever Mosquito Borne Infection: Dr Ajaz Ahmad
Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that has become a significant global public health concern in recent decades. The incidence of the disease has increased dramatically worldwide, affecting approximately 2.5 billion people, or two-fifths of the world’s population. Dengue was once a severe illness, but it can be controlled through preventive measures.
Dr. Ajaz Ahmed, in a conversation with APP on Thursday, emphasized the need to inform people about effective ways to prevent and control dengue outbreaks. He highlighted the importance of implementing a Strategy for Prevention and Control of Dengue, which outlines all necessary actions to combat the disease.
Transmission and Symptoms:
The dengue virus is transmitted through mosquito bites, with the mosquito acting as a vector. Dr. Ahmed explained that the mosquito becomes infected while feeding on an infected host and then transmits the virus to other hosts during subsequent blood meals. Mosquitos are most active in the early morning and late afternoon.
Regarding symptoms, Dr. Ajaz informed that dengue fever presents with:
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Red eyes
- Pain in the eyes
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Deep muscle and joint pains
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low blood pressure and heart rate
- Extreme fatigue
Treatment and Prevention:
There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, according to Dr. Ahmed. The focus is on alleviating symptoms through medication, avoiding aspirin, which can cause severe bleeding. Bed rest and consuming plenty of water are essential for recovery.
To prevent dengue, he suggested:
- Wearing loose, white, and long clothing that covers the body to deter mosquitoes.
- Using mosquito netting or sleeping in air-conditioned rooms with screens on windows.
- Running fans in indoor spaces.
- Utilizing mosquito coils to repel insects.
- Reducing outdoor activities during peak mosquito feeding times (morning and late afternoon).
Dr. Ajaz praised the Sindh Health Department for their proactive measures, including fumigation drives and mass awareness campaigns, which have distributed 200,000 leaflets throughout Sindh.
