According to WHO, the number of reported dengue cases has increased 8 times over the past two decades, where in 2000 there are 505,430 cases and in contrast, in 2019, there were 4.2 million cases! In fact, dengue fever is also the most critical mosquito-borne disease in the world and it is spreading at an alarming pace.
All this caused by a puny mosquito! In addition to this scary news, there are myths about dengue that are being shared via social media by well-meaning but ill-informed friends and family. These myths could cause further suffering, especially for those who might be caring for someone diagnosed with dengue fever.
As such, here are the 6 myths and facts about dengue fever.
Myth #1 : Ingesting Papaya Leaves Can Cure Dengue Fever
Fact: Although there are studies which say that the juice of papaya leaves could speed up the healing of dengue fever patients, this is not tested in those who are severely ill. Although the studies seem promising, the compound that supposedly helps to increase the platelet count hasn’t been isolated. Thus, its benefits and possible side effects hasn’t been studied and this would greatly help members of the populace who are more vulnerable such as pregnant ladies, the elderly and those with comorbidities.
Myth #2 : Dengue Can Spread From Person To Person Via Contact
Fact: Most of us know that dengue fever is transmitted by the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. However, did you know that the mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person with Dengue virus? After around one week, the mosquito can transmit the virus by biting a healthy person!
Myth #3 : Drinking Nipah Crab Soup Can Help Cure Dengue Fever Faster
Fact: This isn’t too ridiculous as an increased calorie and protein intake of at most 50 percent of our daily requirement is advised as soon as the fever is controlled. Crab meat contains as much protein as meat with less saturated fats. It is also easily digestible due to its lack of connective tissues thus making it great for people who are unwell. If you or someone you know has a shellfish allergy or can’t afford the luxury of cooking crab, no need to worry as you can just substitute with other rich sources of protein such as milk, eggs, chicken, or fish!
Myth #4 : Low Platelet Count Means Dengue Fever
Fact: There are many conditions which could lead to a low platelet count. Other infections, medications, autoimmune diseases, surgery or pregnancy could lead to having low platelet count. The best thing to do is to go for a blood test to rule out dengue fever.
Myth #5 : Mosquitoes Are Attracted To Dark Clothing
Fact: This is a complete myth and the American Mosquito Control Association has stated that mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and heat.
Myth #6 : If I Get It Once, I’ll Be Safe Next Time
Fact: How we wish this was true but it is very possible to be able to contract dengue fever again after being infected once. Our bodies do not become immune to the virus after fighting off the virus. This is a dangerous myth as it encourages people to be careless and put themselves at risk of recontracting the virus.
The best way to beat dengue fever is via prevention. Ensure that your home does not have any bodies of standing water for mosquitoes to breed in. If you are staying in a dengue fever hotspot, have preventative measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants when you need to be outdoors during early morning or right before dusk which is when Aedes mosquitoes are most active.
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