13 June 2024 , 11:57
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Health experts are issuing a stark warning to Brits and holidaymakers about the early signs of Dengue fever.
The potentially fatal disease, once confined to tropical climates, has seen a surge in Europe, with cases in the EU and EEA doubling last year compared to the previous one. The NHS is specifically cautioning those travelling to southern Europe between spring and November. This includes popular destinations like Croatia, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Madeira.
Currently, the disease isn't found in the UK and can only be transmitted through infected mosquitoes, not person-to-person. First gaining notoriety in the 1700s as the 'breakbone fever' due to the intense muscle and joint pain it causes, Dengue fever's symptoms typically appear four to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite. Therefore, recognising the earliest warning signs is crucial.
The initial sign of Dengue fever is the mosquito bite itself, although not all mosquitoes carry the virus. It's often accompanied by flu-like symptoms, reports Bristol Live. Another key indicator is the fever, which usually lasts between two and seven days, with possible multiple peaks, dips and resurgence in temperature during this period.
Dengue fever, often mistaken for the flu or a mosquito bite, can present with more severe symptoms such as facial redness in the early stages of infection. The disease is notorious for causing excruciating muscle and joint pain, hence its nickname 'bone-breaker', along with severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands and eye pain.
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A red rash may appear on the body three to seven days after the onset of fever, although only about a quarter of patients experience itchiness. Bleeding gums are among the less common symptoms. While some people may start to feel better within a few days, others may begin to experience worsening symptoms like rapid breathing, bleeding gums and nose, extreme fatigue, severe abdominal pain, restlessness and blood in their vomit or faeces.
Anyone feeling unwell who has recently travelled to a dengue-prone country is advised to check their symptoms and contact 111 either online or by phone, making sure to mention their recent travel to any healthcare professional they speak to. In case of severe symptoms, Brits are urged to call 999 or visit A&E.
Cleveland Clinic warns that one in 20 people with dengue could develop severe dengue, also known as dengue haemorrhagic fever, which carries a mortality rate of up to 50 percent if left untreated.