Dandy fever

Dandy Fever, also known as Dengue Fever, is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms typically begin three to fourteen days after infection. These may include a high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash. Recovery generally takes two to seven days. In a small proportion of cases, the disease develops into severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, resulting in bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and low platelet count.

Etiology

Dandy Fever is caused by any one of four related dengue virus serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4), which are spread by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes, principally Aedes aegypti. The virus has five different types; infection with one type usually gives lifelong immunity to that type, but only short-term immunity to the others. Subsequent infection with a different type increases the risk of severe complications.

Symptoms

The incubation period (time between exposure and onset of symptoms) ranges from 3–14 days, but most often it is 4–7 days. Therefore, travelers returning from endemic areas are unlikely to have dengue if fever or other symptoms start more than 14 days after arriving home. Children often experience symptoms similar to those of the common cold and gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea) and have a greater risk of severe complications, though initial presentation for all ages can be mild.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Dandy Fever is made by clinical presentation and blood testing. A probable diagnosis is based on the patient's reported history of travel and symptoms. Blood testing is often used to confirm a diagnosis in the early stages of the disease.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for Dandy Fever. Supportive therapy is used to help with symptoms. This may include fluid replacement therapy to counteract dehydration, and medication to reduce fever and pain. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases.

Prevention

Prevention of Dandy Fever primarily relies on avoiding mosquito bites in areas where the disease is common. This may include use of mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and staying in accommodations with screened windows and doors.

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