Dengue 2019

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said that the Philippines has the highest deaths from dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) as of August 8, compared to neighboring ASEAN nations, where the mosquito-borne disease has recently increased in incidence. Meanwhile, the National Capital Region, this year, has higher number of dengue cases, more than the average number of cases listed in the past five years (The Manila Times, August 14, 2019). “You’re looking at 5,000 plus cases a week additional,” Duque told reporters. On August 6, the government has declared a national dengue epidemic because of the dramatic soar in the number of cases.

What is Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)?

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is transmitted via bite by a day-biting mosquito -- Aedes aegypti. Person-to-person transmission does not occur. Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, is an identified region in the world where the greatest risk for DHF can occur.

Signs and symptoms pointing to DHF

Fever, dehydration, big lymph nodes, joint pains, skin rash or small spots or dots in the body or extremities (small spots of hemorrhages appearing between two and five days after onset of fever), headache, abdominal pains, and convulsion (in some cases). Nausea and vomiting may be present. Tell your doctor for any signs of bleeding, such as one coming from the nose, bleeding gums, and easily bruised skin that are important signs in DHF and should never be missed out. Symptoms can usually last up to 10 days.

Complications and possible cause of death

The fatal consequence of DHF is bleeding or hemorrhage. Shock brought about by blood loss (hemorrhagic shock) is a known cause of death in DHF.

Treatment

The key to treatment in DHF is early diagnosis or detection for immediate institution of indicated treatment and prevention of complications.

Department of Health’s 4S Strategy

1. Search and destroy mosquito breeding places;

2. Self-protection measures should be adopted in the form of insect repellent and protective clothing (long sleeves and long pants);

3. Seek early consultation on the first signs of the disease; and

4. Say yes to “fogging” if there is an impending outbreak.

On Dengvaxia: I did a little research on the Dengue vaccine and I found out that research for its use and applicability started in 1929. Sanofi is a well-refuted research pharmaceutical company.

It’s time for us to put up a fight against DHF!

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall (Nelson Mandela).”