Dengue
Vector-borne viral disease
Overview
Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne viral disease in the world and occurs in at least 100 countries. It causes up to 100 million infections and 25,000 deaths each year. While states like Alaska have reported cases of dengue, these are almost always from people who got infected while traveling to countries where dengue is common and developed symptoms after returning home.
States with mosquitoes that can carry dengue may be at risk for local outbreaks. Alaska does not have these mosquito species and is not at risk.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
The most common symptom of dengue is fever with any of the following:
- Aches and pains (eye pain, typically behind the eyes, muscle, joint, or bone pain)
- Nausea, vomiting
- Rash
See your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of dengue and live in or have recently traveled to an area with risk of dengue. A blood test is the only way to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
- See a healthcare provider if you develop a fever or have symptoms of dengue. Tell them about any recent travel
- Rest as much as possible
- Take acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol outside of the US) to control fever and relieve pain. Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Drink water or drinks with added electrolytes.
Prevention
Dengue is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night. 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
Reporting
Dengue is a reportable condition in Alaska, and providers should report suspected or confirmed cases to the Alaska Section of Epidemiology immediately at 907-269-8000.