The dengue virus and its symptoms are widely known, particularly in tropical and subtropical climates like India where the disease is endemic. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than half of the world's population is at risk of contracting the virus, with 100 million to 400 million new infections occurring each year.
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which is typically transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. While some individuals with DENV may not exhibit symptoms, others can experience severe symptoms that may be fatal, particularly those with weakened immune systems like young children, the elderly, and those with comorbidities. The dengue virus continually evolves and produces new, stronger strains, either through genetic mutations or the introduction of new viruses from other regions.
New Strains of Dengue Virus and Their Types
Dengue virus is caused by four different serotypes of the virus, which are known as DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Each type represents a distinct strain of the virus. The most recent strain, DENV-2, is considered to be one of the most lethal variants, causing severe symptoms of dengue, including:
While new strains of dengue are a cause for concern, taking preventive measures can help minimize the risk of contracting the disease. If any symptoms are experienced, it is important to promptly seek medical attention for proper treatment.