US Health Officials Warn of Record-Breaking Dengue Cases! Health officials in the United States have issued a warning to doctors about the rising number of dengue cases, which have established new calendar-year records. While dengue fever is less common in the continental United States, the 50 states have experienced three times more cases this year than the same period previous year. The majority of infections were contracted by international travelers, but local mosquitoes also pose a concern, according to the Associated Press.
Why is Dengue called “Break-Bone Fever”?
Dengue is often known as “break-bone fever” because of the extreme muscle and joint pain it causes, which can feel like bones shattering. This evocative nickname captures the extreme pain felt by persons afflicted with the dengue virus, which is primarily carried by Aedes mosquitos. The name “break-bone fever” first appeared in the 18th century during outbreaks in Asia, Africa, and North America, when patients complained of severe pain in their bones, muscles, and joints, as well as high fever, headaches, and rashes.
Global and US Dengue Statistics
According to the World Health Organization, about 6.6 million dengue infections were reported in around 80 countries last year. In the first four months of the year, 7.9 million illnesses and 4,000 deaths were documented. Dengue fever has spread rapidly throughout the Americas, particularly in Brazil and Peru. In the United States, roughly 3,000 cases were reported last year, the highest in a decade, with the majority of infections happening in Puerto Rico and a few in Florida, Texas, and California.
Treatment and Prevention.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral medication for dengue. Treatment focuses on providing supportive care to manage symptoms, such as staying hydrated, using pain medicines such acetaminophen, and keeping an eye out for indicators of serious consequences. Severe cases may need hospitalization for IV fluids and medical monitoring. Prevention is crucial, involving mosquito control measures and vaccination in some regions.
Impact in the Americas
The recent spike in dengue cases in the United States has been connected to climate change. Dengue is caused by a virus transmitted by warm-weather mosquitoes. There are four varieties of dengue virus: 1, 2, 3, and 4. A person infected with one type develops antibodies against it for life, but subsequent infections with other types can be more severe due to a phenomenon known as antibody-dependent enhancement, which can result in more serious sickness.
Conclusion
As dengue fever spreads worldwide, US health experts advise vigilance and preventive steps to manage and control the disease. To lower the risk of dengue, the public should avoid mosquito bites and support mosquito control activities.
Source: TOI
Read More: OSTP Media: Latest Tech, Automotive, and Trending News