Cases of dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, are increasing. So far this year, more than 200 cases of dengue fever have been reported in New York and New Jersey. How can you protect yourself and avoid getting sick from dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses?
“The best solution to dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses is to avoid getting bitten,” says Stefan Hagmann, MD MSc, section chief, division of pediatric infectious disease at Hackensack University Medical Center.
Dr. Hagmann says ways to protect yourself include:
- Wearing more clothes to reduce the amount of exposed skin.
- Using an insect repellent such as DEET on exposed skin.
- Using an insecticide such as permethrin on your clothing. This will kill any bug that lands on your clothes.
You may be concerned about the toxicity of repellents and insecticides, but Dr. Hagmann says, “There is little penetration of these through the skin. Deet can be used on infants as young as 2 months.” However, he advises against applying it to places where the child may lick the skin.
What Are the Symptoms of Mosquito-borne Illness?
The beginning signs of dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses, such as malaria, Zika and yellow fever, are flu-like symptoms such as:
- High fever
- Headache
- Body aches
If you have recently traveled, a fever is a pivotal clue that you may have dengue or another mosquito-borne illness. Dengue generally occurs in tropical and subtropical regions.
For some, dengue is mild. “Others may develop a severe form called dengue hemorrhagic fever. This can cause shock and bleeding, which can lead to death,” says Dr. Hagmann.
“I believe all the dengue cases in New York and New Jersey have been travel-related,” says Dr. Hagmann. West Nile virus is the only mosquito-borne illness found in the US, and it's closely monitored.
When to See a Doctor For a Mosquito-borne Illness
“If you’ve been traveling and present with a fever, you should see your doctor and let them know of your movements,” says Dr. Hagmann. This will alert your doctor to the possibility of a mosquito-borne illness and allow you to get treatment before the illness progresses and becomes critical.
Mosquito bites are common, so Dr. Hagmann reminds people to stay calm. “It’s important to recognize that not every mosquito is carrying a disease,” he says.
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Stefan Hagmann, MD MSc
- To make an appointment with an infectious disease specialist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
- Learn more about infectious diseases at Hackensack Meridian Health.
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