Dengue fever

Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical countries. Dengue fever can manifest in various ways, from severe to mild forms. This disease is common in Southeast Asia, western Pacific islands, and America. Dengue viral infection presents with fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, and sweating. Blood tests show characteristic leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated liver enzymes. Specific blood tests confirm the virus. However, no specific treatment exists. Symptoms can be mild and can be mistaken for symptoms of the flu or another viral infection. In severe cases, symptoms may progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening. If you have recently visited a region where dengue is known to occur and you suddenly develop a fever, see your healthcare provider and notify them of your travel history.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology