Dengue

Definition

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. This disease causes flu-like symptoms and can lead to severe complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. The impact of dengue is particularly pronounced in developing nations, where climate change and urbanization have increased the mosquito population and the frequency of outbreaks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dengue fever affects millions of people globally each year, with the World Health Organization estimating 390 million infections annually.
2. Climate change contributes to the spread of dengue by creating warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, which are favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.
3. Urban areas in developing countries often face higher dengue incidence due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, and lack of effective vector control measures.
4. Vaccines for dengue have been developed, but their use is limited due to factors like the risk of severe illness in those who have not previously been infected.
5. Community engagement and education are vital in controlling dengue outbreaks, as local populations can help identify and eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

Review Questions

• How does climate change affect the transmission dynamics of dengue in developing nations?
  • Climate change significantly impacts the transmission dynamics of dengue by altering environmental conditions that favor mosquito breeding. Warmer temperatures can expand the habitat range of Aedes mosquitoes, while increased rainfall creates more standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs. This results in higher mosquito populations and increased risk of dengue outbreaks, particularly in densely populated urban areas where health infrastructure may be lacking.
• Discuss the social and economic implications of dengue outbreaks in developing countries.
  • Dengue outbreaks can have serious social and economic implications for developing countries. The healthcare burden increases due to rising hospital admissions and medical costs associated with treatment. Additionally, the loss of productivity from affected individuals and caregivers can impact local economies. Frequent outbreaks may also deter tourism and affect trade, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities within these nations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current strategies used for dengue prevention and control in relation to sustainable development goals.
  • Current strategies for dengue prevention include vector control measures, community education, and vaccination programs. While these strategies can be effective, their success varies based on local context and resources. Integrating sustainable development goals into dengue control efforts—such as improving urban planning and sanitation—can enhance resilience against outbreaks. However, challenges like funding limitations and community engagement must be addressed to ensure long-term effectiveness and sustainability.

Related terms

Aedes Mosquito: A genus of mosquitoes known for transmitting various viruses, including dengue, Zika, and chikungunya.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: A severe form of dengue characterized by bleeding, plasma leakage, and potentially life-threatening complications.

Vector Control: Methods used to control the population of disease-carrying organisms, such as mosquitoes, to prevent the transmission of diseases like dengue.