9.4. Travel Related Infections - Dengue

Question 1

What is the significance of Dengue?

Answer 1

It is the commonest human arbovirus infection - killing 25,000 per year

Question 2

Where are the countries at risk of Dengue found?

Answer 2

In the central belt of the world:

1. South America
2. Africa
3. South Asia

Question 3

How is Dengue transmitted?

Answer 3

Via Mosquitoes

Question 4

What is the Clinical Presentation of Dengue?

Answer 4

1. Sudden Fever
2. Severe Headahces with Retro-Orbital Pain
3. Sever Myalgia and Arthalgia
4. Macular / Malculopapular Rash
5. Haemorrhagic Signs (Petechiae, Purpura, Positive Tourniquet Test)

Question 5

How is Dengue Diagnosed?

Answer 5

Clinically:
1. Thrombocytopenia
2. Leucopenia
3. Elevated Transaminases
4. Positive Tourniquet Test
Laboratory:
1. PCR
2. Serology

Question 6

How is Dengue managed?

Answer 6

No Specific Therapeutic Agents - only complications managed, and prevention methods

Question 7

What are the complications of Dengue?

Answer 7

1. Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever

2. Dengue Shock Syndrome

Question 8

How are the complications of Dengue treated?

Answer 8

1. I.V. fluids
2. Fresh Frozen Plasma
3. Platelets

Question 9

What are the prevention methods against getting Dengue?

Answer 9

1. Avoid Bites (Bed Nets, Avoid Still Water)

2. New Vaccine (Dengavaxia) - limited use