Dengue fever is a significant global health concern, affecting millions of people annually, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. With its debilitating symptoms and potential complications, understanding dengue and its prevention through vaccination is essential. At Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton, we offer dengue vaccination services to safeguard your health during travel to endemic areas.
What Is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which has four distinct serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The disease is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which thrives in urban and semi-urban areas.
Key Facts About Dengue:
- Global Impact: Dengue is endemic in over 100 countries, with an estimated 390 million infections annually.
- At-Risk Areas: Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, the Americas, and Africa are hotspots for dengue transmission.
- Severe Cases: Severe dengue, also known as dengue haemorrhagic fever, can lead to life-threatening complications such as internal bleeding and organ failure.
Causes of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is caused by the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito. These mosquitoes are most active during early morning and late afternoon.
Key Points on Transmission:
- Human-Mosquito-Human Cycle: Mosquitoes become carriers after biting an infected person and then transmit the virus to others.
- No Direct Human-to-Human Spread: Dengue cannot spread directly from one person to another.
Signs and Symptoms of Dengue
Dengue fever symptoms usually appear 4-10 days after an infected mosquito bite. The severity of symptoms can range from mild flu-like conditions to severe, life-threatening complications.
Common Symptoms:
- High fever (104°F/40°C)
- Severe headache
- Pain behind the eyes
- Muscle and joint pain (often called “breakbone fever”)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rash (appearing 2-5 days after fever onset)
Severe Dengue Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain and tenderness
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding gums or nose
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Difficulty breathing
Prompt medical attention is crucial if severe symptoms develop.
Prevention of Dengue Fever
Preventing dengue involves reducing mosquito exposure and strengthening immunity through vaccination.
Practical Prevention Tips:
- Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply DEET-based repellents to exposed skin.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Eliminate Breeding Grounds: Remove stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.
- Install Mosquito Nets: Use bed nets, especially in high-risk areas.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe cases of dengue fever.
Dengue Vaccination: Your Best Defence
Vaccination plays a pivotal role in dengue prevention, especially for individuals travelling to endemic regions. At Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton, we offer the dengue vaccine to provide you with the protection you need.
Types of Dengue Vaccines
- Dengvaxia (CYD-TDV):
- Approved for individuals aged 9-45 years.
- Recommended for those who have previously had dengue fever.
- Administered in three doses over 12 months.
- TAK-003 (Qdenga):
- A newer vaccine offering broader protection against all four serotypes.
- Approved in some countries for individuals aged 4-60 years.
- Administered in two doses, three months apart.
Who Should Get the Vaccine?
- Travellers visiting endemic regions.
- Residents in high-risk areas.
- Individuals with a history of dengue infection (consult a healthcare provider).
Pros and Cons of Dengue Vaccination
Pros:
- Prevents Severe Disease: Reduces the risk of severe dengue and related complications.
- Broad Protection: Protects against multiple serotypes of the dengue virus.
- Safe and Effective: Approved vaccines have undergone rigorous testing.
Cons:
- Limited Eligibility: Some vaccines are only suitable for certain age groups or those with prior dengue exposure.
- Potential Side Effects: Mild side effects such as fever, headache, or injection site reactions.
- Cost: Availability and cost may vary depending on location.
Side Effects of Dengue Vaccination
Like any vaccine, dengue vaccines may cause mild side effects. These are typically short-lived and resolve on their own.
Common Side Effects:
- Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
Rare Side Effects:
- Severe allergic reactions (extremely rare but requires immediate medical attention)
What to Do After a Dengue Incident
If you suspect dengue infection, follow these steps to manage your health and prevent complications:
- Seek Medical Attention: Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Rest: Allow your body to recover by avoiding strenuous activities.
- Monitor Symptoms: Watch for warning signs of severe dengue and seek immediate medical help if they occur.
- Prevent Further Spread: Avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes to prevent infecting others.
Why Choose Trio Pharmacy’s Dengue Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton?
At Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton, we provide:
- Expert Guidance: Our trained healthcare professionals offer personalised advice and answer all your questions about dengue vaccination.
- Convenient Appointments: Flexible scheduling to suit your needs.
- Comprehensive Care: From consultation to post-vaccination support, we ensure a seamless experience.
- Travel-Ready Protection: We help you prepare for safe and healthy travels to dengue-endemic regions.
Book Your Dengue Vaccination Today
Don’t let dengue fever disrupt your travel plans or compromise your health. Protect yourself with the dengue vaccine available at Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch care to ensure your peace of mind.
Contact us today to book your appointment or learn more about our services. Let Trio Pharmacy be your trusted partner in travel health and vaccination.
Conclusion
Dengue fever is a serious health risk that requires proactive measures for prevention. Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this debilitating disease. At Trio Pharmacy’s Travel & Vaccination Clinic in Shepperton, we offer expert care and reliable dengue vaccination services to help you stay healthy and safe during your travels.
Don’t wait—schedule your dengue vaccination at our Shepperton clinic today and travel with confidence!