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Our climate is changing. It's getting warmer. That means tropical diseases that are often carried by mosquitoes will be heading north. Dengue fever is one such tropical disease. It affects up to 100 million people a year and the World Health Organization says that 2.5 billion people are currently at risk of contracting this virus.
A popular slang term for dengue fever is breakbone fever, because one of the major symptoms of the virus is severe joint pain. The most noticeable symptom is a bright-red rash that can cover the entire body. Other symptoms include:
From National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
| High fever, up to 105ºF Severe headache Retro-orbital (behind the eye) pain Severe muscle pain Nausea and vomiting |
Left untreated, dengue fever can be fatal. People who are at risk for dengue fever need also be cautious of dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Both of these are nastier and more fatal than run-of-the-mill dengue fever. This is horrible, horrible stuff.
Luckily, scientists at the University of Miami have created a climate-based model that can warn us of dengue fever outbreaks with 83% accuracy. We'll have 40 days to prepare for the northward invasion of disease-carrying mosquitoes. You have still have time to prepare.
Prevent contracting dengue fever
- Use proven forms of bug spray.
- Remove standing water from your yard.
- Wear long-sleeved garments and full-length pants.
- Fix holes in screens.
- Seal your thermal envelope.
Another way you can prevent dengue fever is by lowering your carbon footprint. It's not too late to beat back the tide of climate change and dengue fever.
More on Health:
If Life Gives You Lemons, Make Eco-Friendly Hairspray
Could You Breathe Better With Dirty Hair?
Are You at Risk From Wind Turbine Syndrome?
Go Green: Food & Health
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