Dengue On The Rise Again: Is Dengue Fever Contagious? What Are The Risks?

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Dengue is back in the news in India, especially in Bihar, where a staggering 6,146 cases have been recorded in September alone. This marks the highest number of cases in the last five years.

In Chandigarh, the situation seems somewhat better with 140 cases, lower than the previous year, but experts are still advising caution due to the unpredictable nature of the disease.

However, is dengue contagious like the flu? Let's find out, shall we?

Is Dengue Contagious?

Dengue can be a serious and even life-threatening illness, so it's essential to be aware of the risks involved. Dengue symptoms can range from mild fever, severe headaches, and joint pain to potentially fatal complications like dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome.

So, while you can't catch dengue directly from an infected person, you can certainly catch it from a mosquito that has bitten an infected person.

Even though anyone can get dengue, those who have had it before are at a higher risk of severe illness if infected again.

Precautions To Stay Safe From Dengue Risk

Here are some simple yet effective precautions you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones from dengue:

• Mosquito repellent: Use mosquito-repellent creams or lotions, especially during peak mosquito activity times.
• Cover up: Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimise exposed skin when you're outdoors.
• Remove breeding sites: Empty and clean containers where stagnant water can collect, as these are breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.
• Stay indoors: If possible, stay indoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

On A Final Note...

Dengue may not be directly contagious from person to person, but the threat is real, especially in places like India where outbreaks can occur. With the latest spike in cases, it is very important to take precautions and protect yourself from mosquito bites.

A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping you and your family safe from this potentially dangerous disease.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about dengue and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific concerns.