Outbreak Of Dengue Fever In Nigeria, No Treatment Available —NCDC  

Post created on 12:00 pm

Nigerians have been advised by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, to take preventive measures to protect themselves against the outbreak of dengue fever.

Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus in a mosquito and is transmitted to humans through bite.

A Human-to-human transmission of the virus has not been established and there is no specific treatment available for dengue fever.

Residents in Sokoto are on the high side of being infected with the virus after the outbreak was confirmed on Saturday by the NCDC.

According to information on the NCDC website, “Available data shows that prevention and control of dengue virus infection depend on vector control. There is no specific treatment for dengue, however, early detection and prompt initiation of supportive treatment have been shown to significantly reduce death.

“Rarely, dengue can be severe and lead to death. If symptoms occur, they usually begin four to 10 days after infection and last for two to seven days.

“Symptoms may include high fever (40°C/104°F), severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash. Individuals who are infected for the second time are at greater risk of severe dengue fever,” the agency said.

NCDC further added that there are mild or no symptoms for some persons and they get better within one to two weeks.

[Punch/SA]