According to a latest Lancet study, there was a substantially higher number of dengue cases in India. ICMR is currently working on trials to create a vaccine for the infectious disease.
Increase in dengue cases in India: India is witnessing a surge in dengue cases in all states. Amid all the measures being taken and raising awareness about this mosquito-borne disease, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has increased its efforts to develop a vaccine to combat it. The ICMR, the country’s lead agency for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research, has partnered with two biotech companies, Panacea and the Serum Institute of India (SII), to conduct phase III trials of their vaccines against dengue.
Recently, May 16 was observed as National Dengue Day. The main objective is to raise awareness about it and promote preventive measures. According to the Lancet study on ‘The resurgence of the dengue epidemic and climate change in India’ ” By 2012-13, the face of dengue incidence in India was radically transformed. Dengue has become an annual epidemic in many parts of Southeast Asia, and the disease becomes more dangerous as the environment changes. According to the most recent data, 110,473 cases of dengue were documented in India between January and October 2022, similar to the number of cases reported in 2018 (101,192). In particular, there was a substantially higher number of dengue cases registered in previous years: 188,401 in 2017; 157,315 in 2019; and 193,245 in 2021”.
Dengue is mainly transmitted by a mosquito (Aedes aegypti) and is distributed throughout all tropical countries. As the cases continue to rise, one must protect oneself with proper knowledge and take appropriate measures. Here are some questions that answer all the basics about dengue.
What is dengue and how serious can it be?
Dengue is a vector-borne disease that is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito. There are 4 serotypes of the virus that causes dengue. These are known as DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, DEN-4, according to a report by the World Health Organization.
Severe dengue is the critical phase that occurs around three to seven days after the first signs and symptoms of the virus. Intense pain in the abdomen, fatigue and vomiting blood are some of the symptoms.
What are some basic symptoms of dengue?
- Headaches
- Pain behind the eyes
- Fever
- Inflamed glands
- Nausea
- Pain in the joints, muscles or bones
How long does dengue last?
Dengue causes flu-like symptoms and lasts 2-7 days. Dengue fever usually occurs after an incubation period of 4 to 10 days after the bite of the infected mosquito.
Why has there been a recent increase in dengue?
According to the Lancet study, there are several factors that could have collectively contributed to the increase in cases. The study stated: “Dengue disease has increased steadily over the past half century as a result of several factors, including…”
- world trade and travel
- urbanization
- population growth
- climate variability and change
Is there a vaccine for dengue?
There are no vaccines or specific treatments for dengue infection, but ICMR is currently conducting tests for the same.
How to prevent dengue?
- drink plenty of fluids
- cover up when you go out
- Prevent water from stagnating
- Keep the environment clean
- Use mosquito repellents
- Eat a healthy diet to boost the immune system.
It’s time to keep your guard up as cases rise.
Published Date: May 19, 2023 9:25 AM IST
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