Get Our Latest Updates
Alpro Group Head Office & Distribution Centre
Unit V1-A, Lot 45880, Jalan Techvalley 3/2, Sendayan Techvalley, 71950 Bandar Sri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan.
The Hidden Dangers of Dengue Fever: Why Vaccination is Your Best Defense
By Alpro Pharmacy
January 10, 2025
SHARE:
As a family doctor, I had my fair share of scary dengue stories to tell. Dengue infection does not discriminate, whether you are young or old, healthy or having chronic diseases, does not matter where you live, it can infect you or your loved ones regardless. And that is what makes it so scary.
Globally, dengue cases have increase 30-folds compared to 50 years ago, and half of the world population (in 129 countries) are actually at risk of contracting dengue infection.
In Malaysia, reported cases of dengue, and death due to dengue or its complications are on the steep rise. Hence, understanding the dangers and taking proactive steps—like vaccination—can save lives. Let me guide you through why dengue fever is a serious concern and how we can fight it together.
1. The Dangers of Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. It often begins with symptoms like:
- High fever (often over 40°C).
- Severe headaches
- Muscle, joint, and bone pain so intense it’s often called “breakbone fever.”
- Nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes.
As a doctor, we also looks for signs and symptoms which we refer to as warning signs, such as severe abdominal pain, unprovoked bleeding, persistent vomitting or diarrhea, severe lethargy or difficulty breathing – should you have any of these signs, do not wait and see – quickly meet with your family doctor.
However, for many, the illness is self-limiting. However, for some, it progresses into severe forms such as Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), which require urgent medical attention and can be fatal.
2. Complications of Dengue Fever
Severe dengue doesn’t just occur by chance; it’s linked to specific health risks:
- Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF): Causes bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and fluid accumulation, leading to breathing difficulties, and potentially lethal.
- Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS): A severe drop in blood pressure can result in organ failure.
Without early intervention, these complications can lead to hospitalization, long-term health consequences, or even death.
As mentioned previously, should you or your loved one have any one of the warning signs, quickly meet with your doctor for further assessment and examination.
3. High-Risk Groups for Dengue Fever
While dengue fever affects people of all ages, certain groups are at greater risk of severe disease and complications:
- Children and Elderly: Their immune systems may not respond robustly to the virus.
- Pregnant Women: The virus can cause complications such as preterm delivery or low birth weight.
- Individuals with Chronic Illnesses: Diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions make it harder to fight off dengue.
If someone in your family falls into one of these groups, extra precautions are crucial. Early treatment and prevention strategies, including vaccination, can make all the difference.
4. Why is Dengue Fever Vaccination Important?
While controlling mosquito populations and using repellents are essential, vaccination offers targeted protection against severe forms of dengue fever.
- How it Works: Dengue vaccines are designed to reduce the risk of severe disease and hospitalization, especially in those with a history of prior dengue infection.
- Proven Protection: Clinical trials have shown that vaccination can significantly reduce severe cases of dengue fever and its complications.
- Community Impact: When more people are vaccinated, the overall transmission of dengue in the community decreases, protecting even those who cannot be vaccinated.
Currently, Malaysia has just approved the usage of 1 type of dengue vaccine, which has the ability to confer immunity to all 4 types of dengue viruses. This can be a game changer, as before this, doctors do not have any arsenal of weapons to fight against dengue virus. The vaccine is generally safe, patients from the age of 4 years old can be vaccinated.
Vaccination is not just an individual decision—it’s a step toward safeguarding your family and community.
5. How You Can Protect Your Family Today
Preventing dengue fever involves multiple approaches:
- Eliminate Breeding Sites: Clear stagnant water around your home. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of water.
- Use Protection: Wear long sleeves, apply mosquito repellent, and install mosquito nets.
- Stay Informed: Monitor dengue outbreak updates in your area.
- Try not to go out during dawn or dusk, as that is when the Aedes mosquito is at its most active stage.
Most importantly, get vaccinated. Dengue vaccination provides a layer of protection that can save lives. At Alpro Clinic, we are committed to bringing healthcare to the community, and that includes helping you and your family stay protected from dengue fever.
Do contact your family doctor at Alpro Clinic to find out more.
Remember, prevention is always the best cure.
Explore Free e-Pharmacy Services
Consult our healthcare professionals on Alpro E-Pharmacy if you have any health-related concerns. Alpro E-Pharmacy is specially designed to bring convenience to everyone including those who wish to get 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 or 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 without stepping out from their comfortable home or even hotel. You can even send medications to your loved ones without hassle! Our pharmacists are always ready to assist.
If you need any further help, you are always welcome to use Alpro E-Pharmacy service on Whatsapp or call our hotline 019-7021923
Disclaimer: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your qualified health professional.
