Type 4 dengue corresponds to one of the dengue serotypes, that is, dengue can be caused by 4 different types of viruses that are responsible for the same signs and symptoms. Type 4 dengue is caused by the DENV-4 virus, which is transmitted by the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito and leads to the appearance of typical signs and symptoms of dengue, such as fever, tiredness and pain in the body.
Usually, the patient is immune to one type of dengue after recovering from the disease, however, he can acquire one of the other 3 types and, therefore, it is important to maintain preventive measures, such as putting mosquito repellent, even after having the disease.. Type 4 dengue is curable because the body is able to eliminate the virus, however, it may be necessary to use painkillers, such as Paracetamol, to relieve symptoms.
Symptoms of dengue type 4
As it is one of the types of dengue, the symptoms of dengue type 4 are the same as the other types of dengue, the main ones being:
- Excessive tiredness; Pain in the back of the eyes; Headache; Pain in the muscles and joints; General malaise; Fever above 39ºC; Nausea and vomiting; Urticaria on the skin.
Most cases of type 4 dengue are asymptomatic and, when symptoms appear, they are, in most cases, mild, which can cause this disease to be easily confused with the flu. However, as DENV-4 is less frequently found circulating, when it is not identified, especially in people with the most compromised immune system, it can cause strong symptoms and lead to complications, such as bleeding from the nose and gums, being important that the person goes to the doctor so that the most appropriate treatment can be started.
Type 4 dengue is not more aggressive than other types of dengue, but it can affect a larger number of people, as most of the population does not have immunity against this type of dengue virus. Learn more about the different types of dengue.
How is the treatment
Although type 4 dengue is rare, it is not more or less serious than types 1, 2 or 3, and it is recommended that normal treatment protocols be followed. However, when the person has had dengue on previous occasions, it is possible that the symptoms are more intense, and it may be necessary to use some medication to relieve the signs and symptoms.
Treatment for dengue type 4 should be guided by the general practitioner, but it usually includes the use of painkillers and antipyretics, such as Paracetamol or Acetaminophen, to relieve symptoms until the organism is able to eliminate the virus. In addition, according to the Ministry of Health, patients should rest, drink plenty of fluids, such as water, tea or coconut water, and avoid using drugs such as Acetyl Salicylic Acid (AAS), such as aspirin, as they increase the risk of bleeding, worsening the symptoms of dengue. See more details of dengue treatment.
Also watch the following video and see how to keep the dengue mosquito away from your home and thus prevent dengue:
