Currently, dengue fever (DF) cases are on the rise in many localities. According to Ho Chi Minh City’s infectious disease surveillance system, from the beginning of 2025 to week 23, the city recorded 8,595 DF cases (an increase of 131.2% compared to the same period in 2024 with 3,718 cases). Notably, in recent years, the incidence among adults has increased rapidly, showing that DF is no longer just a children’s disease but can seriously affect all age groups.

Why should we be concerned?

• Cause & progression: DF is caused by the Dengue virus (4 serotypes: DEN-1 → DEN-4). Many cases are mild or asymptomatic, but the disease can progress to severe forms, causing hemorrhage, shock, and even death if not detected, monitored, and treated promptly.

• Vector: The Aedes aegypti mosquito (tiger mosquito) transmits the disease. It is active during the day (especially early morning and late afternoon).

• Favorable conditions: High temperature, humidity, and stagnant water (rainy season, water containers) provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes — increasing the risk of outbreaks.

Symptoms and early warning signs

• Dengue fever usually lasts 2–7 days, appearing after an incubation period of 4–10 days following an infectious mosquito bite. Some typical symptoms include:

  • Sudden high fever (above 39°C / 102°F)

  • Severe headache, especially behind the eyes

  • Muscle and joint pain, fatigue, body aches

  • Skin rash, nausea, and vomiting

• Warning signs of severe dengue: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, extreme fatigue/restlessness, rapid breathing, pale and cold skin — the patient must be taken to a medical facility immediately.

Prevention and control

1. Control water sources: cover or remove unnecessary water containers (bottles, jars, old tires, water tanks).

2. Regular cleaning: scrub and change water in flower vases, plant pots, and water trays at least once a week; tightly cover water storage containers.

3. Personal protection: use mosquito repellent spray/cream, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use mosquito nets (even during the day if necessary).

4. Larvae & mosquito eradication: cooperate with local authorities and health stations in campaigns to eliminate mosquito larvae and spray insecticides in outbreak areas.

5. Vaccination: get vaccinated against dengue when eligible.

6. Early detection & medical checkup: if you have fever with suspicious symptoms, or after returning from an epidemic area — visit a medical facility for examination, testing, and timely monitoring.