Nastaran Bozorgi,1,*
1. Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran
Introduction: Dengue fever, also known as "breakbone fever," is a viral infection caused by an arbovirus and poses a significant public health concern globally. This RNA virus belongs to the Flaviviridae family and comprises four serotypes, designated "DENV1" to "DENV4," which are classified based on the interaction between the virus's surface antigens and the host's anti-infective antibodies. Dengue was first identified in the Philippines in 1954. The primary vector for this disease is the mosquito "Aedes aegypti," which breeds in stagnant water and is most active during the early morning and afternoon hours. Once bitten by an infected mosquito, the virus enters the bloodstream and impacts the immune system. This mosquito species is predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions; however, due to rising global temperatures and increased international travel, its spread is accelerating. It is estimated that 2.5 billion people are at risk of contracting this virus annually. Reports of dengue fever have emerged in various regions of the country. This review study aims to provide an overview of the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and strategies to prevent the spread of this disease.
Methods: Keywords such as dengue fever, dengue virus and Aedes aegypti were used to search online scientific databases like Google Scholar and PubMed, leading to the selection and review of related articles.
Results: The signs and symptoms of dengue fever vary based on the patient's age and typically last 5-7 days. In infants and young children, symptoms include a mild fever and maculopapular rash, while in adults, they present as high fever, vomiting, headache, severe muscle pain, joint pain, difficulty breathing, and pain behind the eyes. Dengue fever manifests in two forms: mild and severe. The mild type features flu-like symptoms (fever of 40 °C), whereas more severe cases can lead to significant bleeding, shock, and even death. Several organs can be affected by the severe fever caused by the dengue virus, including the nervous, respiratory, digestive, cardiac, and renal systems. Diagnosis of this disease is conducted using methods such as serological tests, blood tests, ELISA, and RT-PCR. Although there is no specific treatment for dengue fever, supportive care such as fever management, adequate rest, fluid replacement (for every 1% weight loss), blood and platelet transfusions, and pain relievers like acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (to prevent bleeding) are recommended. The most effective prevention methods include avoiding bites from Aedes mosquitoes, limiting their habitat and breeding sites, using environmentally friendly biocides containing metal nanoparticles, and employing genetic strategies to control the mosquito population.
Conclusion: Currently, two vaccines against the dengue virus, based on "weakened live virus," named "Dengvaxia," and "Qdenga," have been approved by the World Health Organization. However, they can only be administered to individuals with a history of infection with this virus. Their use is limited because, in those who have not been infected, the vaccine increases the risk of severe illness. To better understand the disease, develop treatments and vaccines, and in the absence of specific antiviral therapies to combat dengue fever, ongoing research is essential to reduce the risk of infection in human populations worldwide. It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of dengue fever, and upon noticing acute symptoms such as bleeding and abdominal pain, immediate medical attention is necessary. International cooperation and public education on preventive measures against dengue fever are vital in mitigating the spread of this disease.
Keywords: dengue fever, dengue virus, Aedes aegypti