What is Dengue Fever, and How is it Transmitted?
Dengue fever is a viral illness transmitted by infected female Yellow Fever mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus. The disease is marked by flu-like symptoms, including fever, nausea, vomiting, body aches, and rash. Mosquitoes that carry the disease are present in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, Central, and South America.
France Reports Local Dengue Outbreaks
During September 2022, a 44-year-old woman contracted Dengue fever while traveling in Nice, southern France. After returning to the UK, she experienced the onset of Dengue symptoms and was diagnosed by the Rare Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL). The patient had previously stayed with her family in France, who also developed similar symptoms.
Potential Dengue Outbreaks in the UK
According to medical professionals, the UK could experience Dengue fever outbreaks as a result of climate change. The Asian tiger mosquito, which carries Dengue, has been increasingly prevalent throughout southern Europe, with rising temperatures and rainfall linked to climate change providing a conducive environment for the mosquitoes to thrive. Additionally, increasing global travel and trade could contribute to the spread of the virus in parts of Europe.
Symptoms and Risk of Dengue
While 75% of Dengue cases are asymptomatic, severe cases can lead to potentially fatal conditions such as severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever. Most people experience symptoms lasting between 2-7 days, with recovery taking approximately one week.
The Need for Surveillance and Reporting
Experts have emphasized the importance of surveillance and reporting mechanisms in accurately tracking Dengue fever’s spread. The Agence Regionale de Sante (ARS) in France has reported three separate outbreaks of Dengue virus transmission contracted on national territory without patients having traveled abroad between June and September 2022. This highlights the need for timely identification and tracking of Dengue cases to prevent further outbreaks.
Conclusion
In summary, Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, and increasing global travel and trade, combined with climate change, could contribute to its spread in parts of Europe. Early detection and surveillance are critical in preventing Dengue fever outbreaks and safeguarding public health. As such, healthcare professionals urge the public to remain vigilant and report any Dengue-related symptoms promptly.
