The impact of climate change and unpredictable weather has resulted in erratic rainfall and temperature, leading to an increase in the population of dengue fever mosquitoes.

According to data from the Indonesian Ministry of Health, there were 35,694 cases of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DBD) in Indonesia during the period from January to May, or the first 22 weeks of 2023. West Java is the province with the highest number of DBD cases in Indonesia, with 6,398 cases, followed by Bali with 3,678 cases, Central Java with 3,068 cases, and East Java with 2,551 cases.

The BMKG has issued a warning for El-Nino 2023. The El-Nino phenomenon is synonymous with the dry season, and this condition has the potential to increase the number of DBD cases. Research has shown that mosquitoes easily breed and become more aggressive in hot temperatures, resulting in a 3-5 fold increase in mosquito bites.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DBD) is caused by viruses from the Flaviviridae family, and there are four different but closely related virus serotypes that cause dengue (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4). The symptoms of dengue fever are sometimes similar to those of the flu. However, if not properly treated, this disease can cause complications such as bleeding, organ damage, and plasma leakage, which can be fatal.

Some commonly overlooked symptoms of DBD include:

1. High fever reaching 40 degrees Celsius
2. Severe headache
3. Pain in the joints, muscles, and bones
4. Pain behind the eyes
5. Decreased appetite
6. Nausea and vomiting
7. Swollen lymph nodes
8. Red rashes appearing 2-5 days after the fever
9. Damage to blood vessels and lymph nodes
10. Bleeding from the nose, gums, or under the skin.

Prevention Efforts

Prevention efforts that can be done by the community to control dengue fever (DBD) include PSN (Eradication of Mosquito Breeding Sites) 3M Plus 3M:

• Draining and brushing stagnant water.
• Covering water storage containers.
• Recycling or reusing old items.

In addition to these measures, there are other ways to prevent mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding:

• Plant mosquito-repellent plants.
• Use mosquito repellent lotion.
• Raise mosquito-eating fish.
• Install wire mesh on windows and vents.
• Participate in community clean-up activities. 

With the increasing number of dengue fever cases, it is important for the community to be vigilant in preventing dengue fever. People are advised to implement the 3M Plus strategy and to recognize the symptoms of DBD to prevent any delays in treatment.

Treatment of Dengue Fever

Until now, there is no specific treatment for dengue fever. Treatment aims to manage the symptoms and prevent the virus from worsening. Some steps that can be taken include:

1. Prevent dehydration by drinking enough water.
2. Get plenty of rest.
3. Take fever-reducing medication as recommended by a doctor.
4. Avoid taking pain relievers, as they can cause complications and bleeding.
5. Monitor urination frequency and urine output. In cases of shock, the patient may feel weak, restless, and have decreased consciousness.

High fever in infants can sometimes lead to seizures.

If any of the above-mentioned symptoms of dengue fever appear, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Author: Dr. Luh Ayu Krisnayanti Darma (Medical Consultant at Pramita Clinic Laboratory, Jl. Pajajaran No. 86 Bandung)