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Bring Bug Protection! Dengue Fever Outbreak Reported in Senegal

mosquito-bite-dengue-fever

A black mosquito sits on a light-toned human finger in front of a green background.
Travellers headed to Senegal should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites due to an outbreak of dengue fever.

Health officials in the West African country have reported the spread of the viral disease, which is known to cause nausea, headache, fever, rash, vomiting, minor bleeding, as well as pain in the eyes, muscles, and joints.

Although most patients recover within one to two weeks, severe cases of dengue fever may result in shock, hemorrhaging, organ failure, and death. The virus is transmitted through mosquito bites.

Here are some tips to reduce your risk of bug bites:

  • Use insect repellant with a minimum of 20% DEET
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  • Cover exposed skin by wearing thick clothing and tuck your pants into your socks
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  • Stay in rooms with air conditioning and window screens
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  • Sleep under bed nets treated with insecticide
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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Image source: Oregon State University