The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention stated that there is no specific treatment for dengue fever, urging Nigerians, particularly those residing in Sokoto, to adopt preventive measures against the virus.
The NCDC confirmed the outbreak of dengue fever in Sokoto State on Saturday.
According to the NCDC’s information posted on its website, the prevention and control of dengue virus infection primarily rely on vector control, as there is no specific treatment for dengue.
“Available data shows that prevention and control of dengue virus infection depend on vector control. There is no specific treatment for dengue, however, early detection and prompt initiation of supportive treatment have been shown to significantly reduce death,” it stated.
However, the institute emphasized that early detection and the prompt initiation of supportive treatment significantly reduce the risk of death.
Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus and transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, does not exhibit human-to-human transmission.
“Rarely, dengue can be severe and lead to death. If symptoms occur, they usually begin four to 10 days after infection and last for two to seven days.
“Symptoms may include high fever (40°C/104°F), severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands, and rash. Individuals who are infected for the second time are at greater risk of severe dengue fever,” it furthered.
