Yamuna River Raises Concerns of Dengue Spread: Common Signs and Symptoms of the Disease

The flooding of the Yamuna River in Delhi has raised fears of the spread of dengue, a mosquito-borne disease. With the monsoon season and rising dengue cases in the capital, authorities are concerned about the virus spreading further. Dengue can present with both mild and severe symptoms, and individuals who have had dengue in the past are at higher risk of developing severe dengue. Prevention is crucial, and measures such as wearing full-sleeved clothes and using mosquito repellents during the day are recommended. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of dengue to seek timely medical attention.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Dengue:

1. High Fever: Dengue is characterized by a sudden onset of high fever, often reaching 104°F (40°C). The fever typically lasts for 2 to 7 days.
2. Severe Headache: Dengue fever is often accompanied by an intense headache, particularly behind the eyes. The headache can be persistent and debilitating.
3. Pain Behind the Eyes: Individuals with dengue may experience pain and discomfort behind their eyes, described as a deep ache.
4. Joint and Muscle Pain: Dengue is known for causing severe joint and muscle pain, earning it the nickname “breakbone fever.” The pain can be widespread and excruciating.
5. Rash: After a few days of fever, a characteristic rash may develop on the skin. The rash appears as small, red, and raised spots that can be itchy.
6. Nausea and Vomiting: Dengue fever can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which may contribute to dehydration.
7. Fatigue: Extreme fatigue and weakness are common among individuals affected by dengue, even after the fever subsides. Fatigue can persist for weeks.
8. Bleeding: In some cases, dengue fever can cause bleeding manifestations, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or easy bruising. Severe bleeding may indicate dengue hemorrhagic fever, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Myths Associated with Dengue

It is essential to dispel myths and avoid panic associated with dengue. The majority of people (90%) recover from dengue without significant medical intervention, following simple measures such as staying hydrated, resting, and managing fever and pain with paracetamol. Severe or complicated dengue is seen in only about 10% of patients, and hospitalization is required for only 5% of dengue cases.

With the flooding of the Yamuna River, the risk of dengue spread in Delhi has increased. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of dengue is crucial for early detection and timely medical intervention. While myths and panic around dengue exist, it is important to focus on preventive measures and seek medical attention if experiencing dengue symptoms. Public awareness and proactive efforts can help mitigate the impact of dengue during the monsoon season.

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