Guadeloupe has crossed the dengue epidemic threshold, with a high risk of new cases. Discover the symptoms, prevention measures and advice from Dr. Kierzek to protect yourself against this health threat.
Guadeloupe is currently going through an epidemic phase of dengue, due to theappearance of a rare serotype and a new tiger mosquito. These factors increase the risk of cas graves. Dengue fever is a infection virale transmitted by mosquitoes, and comes in four variants of the virus.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of dengue usually occur between three and 15 days after the bite of an infected mosquito. They can vary, but often include the following signs:
- High fever (40°C);
- Severe headaches;
- Pain behind the eyes;
- Severe muscle and joint pain;
- Extreme fatigue;
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Rash.
In the majority of cases, symptoms are mild. However, in rare cases (less than 5%), dengue can progress to severe form potentially fatal.
Treatments and prevention of dengue
There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Management is symptomatic:
- Repos ;
- Hydration;
- Paracetamol to relieve fever and pain.
Aspirin and anti-inflammatories are strictly not recommended due to the risk of hemorrhage.
Prevention is mainly based on:
- Individual protection against mosquito bites (repellents, mosquito nets, long clothing);
- The fight against larval breeding sites (elimination of stagnant water);
- Epidemiological surveillance.
There is a vaccine (Dengvaxia) but its use is limited to people who have already been infected with dengue. In the event of suggestive symptoms upon returning from a risk area, it is important to consult quickly a doctor.
-The advice of Dr. Gérald Kierzek
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