While there are some signs that COVID-19 begins to slow down, new concerns have emerged in the form of a sharp increase in dengue cases across India.
New dengue variant, DENV-2 detected in 11 states of India
Despite the fact that the dengue epidemic has been somewhat under control in recent years. Doctors now report more cases of dengue than ever, that too, with the presence of a newer variant.
11 states in India, including Kerala, Telangana, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha, have seen a staggering increase in infections of a new variant of dengue in the past month and a half.
DENGUE: DENV-2 or strain D2
While the monsoon season generally sees some cases of dengue, this year. Cases related to mosquito-borne viral disease have increased dramatically, along with an increase in COVID-19 cases as well.
According to official reports, of the four dengue virus serotypes, DENV-2 or the D2 strain is the one currently in circulation. Which not only increases the severity of the cases, but also causes more victims.
The strain is particularly threatening and capable of inducing mortality
Balram Bhargava, Director General of the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has also stated that the strain is particularly threatening and capable of inducing mortality, and one of the reasons behind the mysterious outbreak that claimed many lives in western UP.
Why is it of concern?
One of the main reasons why the DENV strain is worrying many is the severity of the cases that are seen.
Across all states, not only has there been a higher detection of dengue cases than usual, some states like UP and Kerala have also seen a higher volume of people, especially children hospitalized for treatment, and many deaths have also been recorded.
This, officials say, is particularly due to the D2 strain of the mosquito-borne virus.
While most of the time DENV strains cause an acute or mild flu-like illness, particular DENV strains, such as D2. They have been particularly associated with severe symptoms and intensity of symptoms, which can also lead to death if not treated in time. TO
Some medical authorities have also cited DENV-2’s apparent ability to facilitate viral entry.
How often does the dengue virus mutate or change?
Mainly, although it is the dengue virus that causes the dreaded disease, it is known to take shape in four stages namely D1, D2, D3 and D4.
Variations in DENV infection, like COVID-19, imply that it increases the risk of someone getting sick, or that it has characteristics that can make it threatening.
What the experts also say is that the presence of more worrisome dengue strains could mean that people who have been previously infected may also be re-infected, as they would have immunity that protects only against one of the strains (that infected them before) .
Could the spread of the disease be as severe as COVID-19 variants?
While variants of the coronavirus are said to spread rapidly and cause presymptomatic illness. It should be remembered that dengue infections are transmitted through the bites of mosquitoes carrying the virus and it is not necessary through the spread of direct respiratory droplets transmitted by an infected person.
Having said that, What makes the current variation, DENV-2, so concerning is that it can spread rapidly, causing serious illness and mortality if not managed well. Furthermore, DENV-2 can be a threat to someone who has previously been infected with a dengue serotype and later becomes infected with this variant.
Dengue remains a manageable disease
While dengue remains a manageable disease that can be easily prevented (by following proper precautions), treatment for dengue remains in symptomatic management.
In some cases, hospitalization may be required. But most people do well over time, if symptoms are properly diagnosed and treated.
Related Notes:
Vitamin D emerges as a possible treatment for COVID-19
Mu variant of COVID-19 breaks through in Mexico and attacks the most …
Why COVID-19 Could Become Flu-Like