what cause dengue - #39615
I am really worried right now. Just last week, my cousin came back from a tropical vacation and now she’s dealing with a fever that’s through the roof. Doctors think it might be dengue, and I’m trying to understand what cause dengue in the first place? I mean, she was in an area that had mosquitoes everywhere, like seriously every five seconds I was swatting at them while we were there for her wedding. I heard from a friend that these mosquitoes, like Aedes aegypti or something, are the ones that spread the virus but it’s really confusing. Got me thinking, if the mosquitos are the main culprits, what else could be lurking out there? She started with some chills, then got this awful headache and muscle pain that just won't let up. She looks drained, poor thing. I can’t help but wonder, could there be other reasons that people get dengue too? Like maybe a certain environment or something, like if it rained a lot after she came back or even how clean the area was. Is there any way to lessen the chances of getting it? I really just want to understand what cause dengue more clearly. If anyone has insights, I’d be super grateful!
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Doctors' responses
Dengue is caused by the dengue virus, primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes aegypti mosquito, and sometimes Aedes albopictus. Indeed, these mosquitoes thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, where they breed in stagnant water – things like in containers, plant pots, or clogged drains. The Aedes mosquito is highly adapted to urban areas, which amplifies the risk, especially in places with inadequate waste management or water storage practices. This particular mosquito bites mostly during the day, but they’re aggressive feeders, giving plenty of opportunities to spread the virus.
Understanding the environment is crucial—rainfall can increase mosquito breeding sites, as more water bodies mean more places for the mosquitos to lay eggs. While rainfall itself doesn’t directly cause dengue, it certainly shapes the mosquito population’s growth. As for cleanliness, areas with poor sanitation might have more mosquito breeding grounds, since standing water can accumulate unnoticed in garbage or discarded items.
Reducing the risk involves several pragmatic steps. First, minimizing stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed is key, like checking flower pots or any outdoor containers - a small amount of water is enough. Using mosquito repellent with DEET or picaridin on any exposed skin, and wearing long sleeves when possible during peak mosquito feeding times, usually early morning and late afternoon, are practical measures too. Homes with screens on windows or air conditioning can reduce exposure significantly.
Beyond that, community-level initiatives, such as coordinated cleaning drives, larvicide treatments in water bodies, and mosquito population monitoring, can reduce the overall incidence of dengue. Awareness and personal protection are cornerstone preventive measures, yet if fever and muscle pain persist or worsen, urgent medical attention is necessary. Dengue can lead to severe complications like hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, making it essential to follow a healthcare provider’s guidance.

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