Dengue cases are rising globally, with Brazil and South America experiencing record highs.
year-on-year.
About Dengue
- Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
About half of the world’s population is now at risk of dengue with an estimated 100–400 million infections occurring each year.- Dengue is found in tropical and sub-tropical climates worldwide, mostly in urban and semi-urban areas.
- While many dengue infections are asymptomatic or produce only mild illness, the virus can occasionally cause more severe cases, and even death.
- Prevention and control of dengue depend on vector control.
- There is no specific treatment for dengue/severe dengue.
- Early detection and access to proper medical care greatly lower fatality rates of severe dengue.
- Caused by: Dengue virus (Genus Flavivirus),
- Transmitted by: Several species of female mosquito within the genus Aedes principally Aedes aegypti.
- This mosquito also transmits chikungunya, yellow fever and Zika infection.
- 4 distinct serotypes (separate groups within a species of microorganisms that all share a similar characteristic) of the virus that cause dengue : DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3 and DEN-4.
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Global Burden of Dengue
- Dengue cases have surged globally, with over 6.5 million cases reported in 2023, surpassing the previous record of 5.2 million in 2019.
- In 2024 (till August) it reached an all time high with 12.06 Million reported cases and 6990 deaths.
- Many cases remain unreported or misdiagnosed, highlighting the true extent of the dengue burden.
Reason for Surge in Dengue Cases
- Urbanisation: Increased Population Density, Expansion of Cities & Human Movement
- Climate Change : Warmer temperatures and altered rainfall patterns.
- Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather.
- Changing climate allows Aedes mosquitoes to expand their range.
Vaccines for Dengue
- Dengvaxia: It is a Live recombinant tetravalent vaccine recommended for ages 9–45 or 9–60 years, depending on the country.
- Safe for those with prior dengue infection and has shown around 80% efficacy.
- Qgenda: It is a Live-attenuated vaccine recommended for ages 6–16 in high transmission areas.
- Two-dose series to be administered three months apart.
- Till Now there is no Dengue vaccine available in India.
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September 24, 2024
