Dengue fever - a global threat

Recent publications and numerous reports highlight the fact that the number of infections with Dengue fever has doubled in the past 10 years. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 2.5 billion people in 100 countries are at risk - with an increasing tendency.

Dengue fever is an acute febr /ile disease, spread by infected female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Symptoms range from flu-like ones, to high fever with severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and rashes.

There are no specific antiviral medicines for Dengue. At present, the only method of controlling or preventing dengue virus transmission is to combat the vector mosquitoes.

In order to avoid mosquito bites, wear shoes, socks, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts. This is especially recommended outside. Furthermore, protect yourself by using insecticides, mosquito nets and insect repellents like ATACK® Control.

For further information:

http://www.who.int/topics/dengue/en/

http://www.welt.de/gesundheit/article10522816/Dengue-Fieber-wird-zur-globalen-Bedrohung.html