India: Dengue fever outbreaks continue in several states

Event

Outbreaks of dengue fever continue to be reported throughout India, particularly in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal states. As of December 3, over 21,000 suspected cases were reported in West Bengal, with at least 38 associated deaths.

Context

Nearly 130,000 cases of dengue fever and over 250 deaths related deaths were confirmed in India in 2016, marking the first time every state reported a case.

Dengue fever is transmitted via the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and rash. Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a potentially deadly complication that is characterized by high fever, the enlargement of the liver, and hemorrhaging. The disease is mostly found in urban and semi-urban areas. Be aware that aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen) should be avoided as these drugs may worsen bleeding issues associated with the diseases; patients may be given doses of acetaminophen (paracetamol).

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites - e.g. by wearing loose, covering clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping in a screened-in or air-conditioned room.