Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness with an incubation period of 3 to 14 days. Dengue fever is characterized by the sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and a rash. The rash appears 3-4 days after the onset of fever. Treatment includes supportive therapy such as bed rest, fluids and antipyretics.

At one time Dengue fever was endemic in Texas. In 1922, 40,000 cases of dengue occurred in Texas. Since the 1940s, the illness has been reported only sporadically in Texas and has usually been acquired during travel to other countries. Dengue fever outbreaks in Texas occurred in 1980 with 27 cases in south Texas and again in 1986 with 10 cases, also in south Texas. In 1995 there was a dengue epidemic in Latin American and Caribbean countries and in September of 1995, the first case acquired in Texas occurred in Hidalgo County.

Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are the vectors for the virus. Aedes albopictus is common in Houston. During the years of 1995-1999, six cases of Dengue fever were reported among Houston residents. All six cases had travel to countries where Dengue fever is endemic.

There is no vaccine against the illness; therefore people are encouraged to eliminate the breeding grounds for mosquitos in general, and to protect themselves against mosquito bites. Anyone who has the symptoms should seek medical attention. To reduce mosquito breeding reservoirs:

• Empty, remove, cover or turn upside down any container that holds water, such as saucers for flowerpots and buckets.

• Change water and scrub birdbaths and vases holding flowers or cuttings at least twice each week.

• Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets.

• Empty plastic wading pools weekly and store inside when not in use.

• Move drains hoses of window or central air conditioning units frequently so that water does not collect or stand in one location.

• Get rid of old tires, cans, bottles, etc.

• Keep gutters free of debris and standing water.

• Check screens on all windows and doors and patch if necessary.

• Wear protective clothing, especially long sleeves and slacks if you have to be outside. The Aedes albopictus mosquito is a daytime feeder.

• Use an insect repellant containing Deet and apply as directed. Spray form is best since the product in concentration can be toxic, especially to children.

The CDC reports there is on-going research for a vaccine, however an effective dengue vaccine will probably not be available for public use for another five to 10 years. For more information on Dengue fever call: the Bureau of Epidemiology at 713-794-9181.

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