Dengue Fever and 10 Strange Myths About It

Medically reviewed by Dr Itender Pal Singh

Dengue fever, a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes, is a significant public health concern, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. While it’s well-known in many areas, a surprising amount of misinformation surrounds dengue fever, leading to widespread myths that can hinder proper understanding and management of the disease especially in developing countries. This article aims to dismiss these myths, providing clear, factual information about dengue fever.

Understanding Dengue Fever

1) What is Dengue Fever ?

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti species. The virus has four distinct but closely related serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4). Infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity to that specific serotype, but subsequent infections with a different serotype increase the risk of developing severe dengue (also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome).

2. Symptoms of Dengue Fever

The symptoms of dengue fever typically appear 4 to 10 days after the mosquito bite and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

– High fever

– Severe headache

– Pain behind the eyes

– Joint and muscle pain

– Nausea and vomiting

– Fatigue

– Skin rash

In severe cases, dengue can lead to bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and even organ damage, which can be fatal if not managed properly.

3. Transmission and Risk Factors

Dengue is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, which is active during the day, particularly at dawn and dusk. These mosquitoes breed in standing water, making urban areas with poor sanitation more susceptible. People living in or traveling to areas where dengue is endemic are at higher risk of contracting the virus.

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Dengue Fever

Despite widespread awareness, several myths about dengue fever persist, potentially leading to harmful practices. Let’s explore and debunk some of these common myths:

Myth 1: Dengue is Contagious

Fact: Dengue fever is not contagious and cannot be spread directly from person to person. The virus is transmitted only through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito.

This misconception often leads to unnecessary fear and social stigma. People mistakenly believe that close contact with a dengue patient can spread the virus, leading to isolation or neglect. In reality, protecting oneself from mosquito bites is the key preventive measure.

Myth 2: Only Poor Sanitation Causes Dengue

Fact: While poor sanitation and stagnant water are significant contributors to the spread of dengue, even clean, urban environments are not immune.

Aedes mosquitoes can breed in any standing water, whether in an open drain, a water-filled flowerpot, or a discarded plastic container. It’s crucial to understand that dengue can occur in both rural and urban areas, regardless of overall cleanliness.

Myth 3: Papaya Leaf Juice Cures Dengue

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that papaya leaf juice can cure dengue.

While some studies suggest that papaya leaf extract may help increase platelet count, which often drops in dengue patients, it is not a cure for the disease. Relying on this remedy instead of seeking proper medical treatment can delay necessary care and increase the risk of complications.

Myth 4: Once Infected, You’re Immune for Life

Fact: Infection with one serotype of the dengue virus provides immunity only against that specific serotype, not the others.

A person who has had dengue once is still at risk of contracting the disease again if exposed to a different serotype. In fact, subsequent infections can increase the likelihood of developing severe dengue, which is more dangerous.

Myth 5 : Goat milk can cure Dengue

There is no scientific study in modern medicine that says that goat milk heals endothelial dysfunction. If it helps, it may help only because of it being a fluid and not as goat milk. Raw goat milk can carry harmful bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli and Listeria and other germs that can cause foodborne illnesses and may make one very sick. Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized to kill harmful bacteria.

Certain population groups such as people with weakened immune systems, older adults, pregnant women, children and teenagers are especially susceptible to the dangerous bacteria in raw milk.Drinking raw goat milk can also cause brucellosis.  It presents with fever, night sweats, malaise, loss of appetite (anorexia), joint pain (arthralgia), fatigue, weight loss and depression. These symptoms may either develop suddenly or gradually over several days to weeks. The most common involved systems are the musculoskeletal and genitourinary systems.

Neurobrucellosis, endocarditis and hepatic abscess occur in 1 to 2 percent of cases. Think of brucellosis, if a person presents with otherwise unexplained fever and nonspecific complaints and has a possible source of exposure (e.g., contact with animal tissues, ingestion of unpasteurized goat milk or cheese).  ELISA test confirms the diagnosis.

Myth 6 : Mosquitoes Only Bite During the Night

Fact: The Aedes mosquito, which transmits dengue, is most active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.

Unlike the malaria-transmitting Anopheles mosquito, which is primarily active at night, Aedes mosquitoes prefer to feed during daylight hours. This difference underscores the importance of daytime preventive measures, such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Myth 7 : Dengue Only Affects Children

Fact: Dengue fever can affect individuals of all ages, including adults.