What is dengue fever?

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orange County health officials on Thursday reported two cases of dengue fever that were contracted locally.

The virus — which has been surging worldwide — is spread primarily through the bite of warm-weather mosquitoes that are expanding their geographic reach due to climate change. Climate researchers say the warming weather is also prolonging the number of mosquito days across the U.S.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, dengue outbreaks are reported frequently in these regions:

• the Caribbean

• Central America

• South America

• Southeast Asia

• Pacific Island

What is dengue fever?

Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne disease worldwide and remains less common in the continental United States.

This disease is caused by four distinct but closely related dengue viruses (dengue-1, -2, -3, and -4). Dengue viruses are spread by the bites of infected Aedes species mosquitoes.

According to Orange County Mosquito Control, crews are focusing on eliminating the breed of mosquito that is known to carry the arbovirus, Dengue.

What are the symptoms of dengue fever?

According to the CDC, dengue fever symptoms include headaches, fever, and flu-like symptoms. Severe cases can cause serious bleeding, shock, and death. Symptoms usually start within a few days of being bitten but can take up to 2 weeks to develop. Repeated infections can be especially dangerous.

There are four types of dengue virus, simply known as 1, 2, 3 and 4.

When someone is first infected, their body builds antibodies against that type for life. If they get infected with another type of dengue, the antibodies from the first infection may fail to neutralize the second type — and actually can help the virus enter immune cells and replicate.

Who is at risk?

Those who have traveled to destinations with a risk of dengue during warm weather season have a higher change of getting infected.

Treatment for dengue fever

There is no widely available medicine for treating dengue infections, however, if you think you’re infected with dengue, the CDC recommends seeing a healthcare provider, taking acetaminophen, rest, and drinking plenty of fluids.

Dengue prevention

There is no widely available dengue vaccine to prevent dengue infection. The best way to prevent dengue is to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

• Use insect repellent.

• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

• Take steps to control mosquitoes in and around your home

For more information on dengue fever, click here.