Dengue

Dengue fever is a tropical viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that are active during the day. These mosquitoes are highly urbanized; they seek out damp areas with stagnant fresh water and human habitation. They are typically found within 200 meters of human dwellings and can be found in most tropical bathrooms. Humans are the only reservoir for the disease.

Dengue fever occurs in all tropical and subtropical regions between the 30th parallel north and the 30th parallel south. In 2024, an extreme increase in cases was observed in Latin America. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported that up to 358% more cases were observed compared to the average over the past five years. Other significantly affected regions include South and Southeast Asia. In the Czech Republic, dengue fever occurs only as an imported infection; 119 cases were reported in 2024.

The incubation period for the disease is about 4–7 days. This is followed by the development of typical symptoms such as high fever and severe headaches, muscle pain, and joint pain. In cases of reinfection, there is up to an 8% risk of a severe course of the disease, characterized by hemorrhagic fever and shock. There is no specific treatment for the disease; only symptomatic treatment is possible. After recovery, symptoms such as depression or hair loss may persist for several months.