The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has emphasized the absence of a specific treatment for dengue fever. It has urged Nigerians, particularly those residing in Sokoto, to take precautions against the virus. The NCDC confirmed the outbreak of dengue fever in Sokoto State on Saturday.
“Available data shows that prevention and control of dengue virus infection depend on vector control. There is no specific treatment for dengue; however, early detection and prompt initiation of supportive treatment have been shown to significantly reduce death,” the NCDC stated on its website.
Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus and is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Human-to-human transmission of the virus has not been established. The public health institute mentioned that most people with dengue fever have mild or no symptoms and recover within one to two weeks.
“Rarely, dengue can be severe and lead to death. If symptoms occur, they usually begin four to 10 days after infection and last for two to seven days. Symptoms may include high fever (40°C/104°F), severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash. Individuals who are infected for the second time are at greater risk of severe dengue fever,” it added.