The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has announced that there is no specific treatment available for dengue fever.
As a result, it urged Nigerians, particularly those in Sokoto, to take anti-virus precautions.
The NCDC confirmed the outbreak of dengue fever in Sokoto State on Saturday.
“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,” the NCDC said on its website.
Dengue fever is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus that is transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus’s transmission from person to person has not been proven.
According to the public health institute, most people with dengue fever have mild to no symptoms and will recover in one to two weeks.
“Rarely, dengue can be severe and lead to death. If symptoms occur, they usually begin four to 10 days after the 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 added.
