Summary: The city of Hanoi in Vietnam is experiencing a significant increase in dengue fever cases, with a total of 10,372 cases reported this year alone. The Thach That district is the most affected, followed by Hoang Mai, Thanh Tri, Ha Dong, Phu Xuyen, Dong Da, Cau Giay, and Nam Tu Liem. Local health officials are implementing campaigns to improve environmental sanitation and destroy mosquito breeding sites. It is essential for the public to take preventive measures and protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Dengue fever is a year-round threat in Vietnam, with higher risks during and after the rainy season. In 2022, Vietnam reported around 367,729 cases of dengue fever, followed by 71,000 cases in 2021 and over 133,000 cases in 2020. Symptoms of dengue fever include sudden fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and nose or gum bleeding. It typically takes 5-7 days for symptoms to appear after a mosquito bite, but it can take up to 10 days.
To prevent dengue fever, individuals should take precautions such as avoiding mosquito bites and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes can breed. It is crucial not to use aspirin or ibuprofen products if dengue fever is suspected, as they can worsen bleeding tendencies associated with the disease.
If you have previously been infected with dengue fever, consult with your physician about vaccination. If you develop symptoms within two weeks of being in affected areas, seek medical attention promptly. Dengue fever can progress to a severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal if not recognized and treated in time.
Take the necessary measures to protect yourself from dengue fever and reduce the risk of mosquito bites while in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Definitions:
– Dengue fever: A viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes that causes flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding.
– Mosquito bites: The act of a mosquito puncturing the skin with its mouthparts to draw blood, often resulting in the transmission of diseases.
– Environmental sanitation: Practices that ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the environment to prevent the spread of diseases.
– Mosquito breeding sites: Areas where mosquitoes lay their eggs and reproduce, often stagnant water sources such as puddles or containers with standing water.
Sources:
– Health officials in Hanoi, Vietnam
– World Health Organization (WHO)
