Neither vaccine nor drugs for
preventing infection are available. The bite of one infected mosquito can result
in infection. The risk of being bitten is highest during the early morning,
several hours after daybreak, and in the late afternoon before sunset. However,
mosquitoes may feed at any time during the day. Aedes mosquitoes typically live
indoors and are often found in dark, cool places such as in closets, under beds,
behind curtains, and in bathrooms. Travelers should be advised to use
insecticides to get rid of mosquitoes in these areas and to select
accommodations with well-screened windows or air conditioning when possible.
Additionally, travelers should take measures to avoid being bitten by
mosquitoes. Long-term travelers and expatriates can take extra precautions to
reduce mosquito-breeding sites around their accommodations by emptying and
cleaning or covering any standing water (such as in water storage tanks and
flowerpot trays).
What is the treatment for dengue fever?
Because dengue fever is caused by a virus, there is no specific medicine or
antibiotic to treat it. For typical dengue, the treatment is purely concerned
with relief of the symptoms. Rest and fluid intake for adequate hydration is
important. Aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should only be taken
under a doctor's supervision because of the possibility of worsening bleeding
complications. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and codeine may be given for severe
headache and for joint and muscle pain (myalgia).