Unlike other infections, dengue is usually more severe the second time round, as a member ( Chiechie ) has described in another thread ( http://filipinaroses.com/showthread....engue-Mosquito ).
• There is still no specific treatment or vaccine. It’s complicated because there are four different types of virus causing dengue ( serotypes – DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4 ). Recovery from one gives lifelong immunity, but infection by other serotypes increases the risk of severe dengue. It does this by “ confusing “ the immune response ( antibodies and “ T cells “ ). Recent work in several centres round the world has confirmed this. It has slowed development of a vaccine, although there is hope at least one ( being tested in Philippines and Thailand ) will be available by 2015.
• Despite the increase in dengue – endemic in over 100 countries, including Philippines – it is not usually fatal. Good medical care means less than 1% deaths ( although possibly 5% of the estimated 50 – 100 million worldwide cases do prove fatal ).
• It’s a mosquito-borne infection and the only methods to control dengue are by targeting the mosquitoes.
• Last year the Philippines Department of Health ( DOH ) unveiled a campaign “ AKSYON BARANGAY KONTRA DENGUE “ ( ABaKaDa ) to encourage community action. This includes Search and destroy mosquito sites (covering water containers ), Self-protection ( long-sleeved shirts, mosquito repellents ), and Seeking early advice/ consultation at the nearest health center.
• So far this year the DOH has reported around 19,000 cases ( 25% lower than last year ), with 107 deaths ( less than 1% ) – although there were more cases in three regions ( Zamboanga, Davao and Bicol ).