A STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TEACHING PROGRAMME ON KNOWLEDGE REGARDING DENGUE FEVER AMONG PEOPLES LEAVING IN SELECTED AREA OF RAJASTHAN

Abstract

The incidence of dengue has increased dramatically worldwide in recent decades, with cases reported by the WHO increasing from 505,430 cases in 2000 to 5.2 million in 2019. The vast majority of cases are asymptomatic or mild and self-limiting, thus the number of cases dengue fever is underestimated. Many cases are also misdiagnosed as other febrile illnesses.

One model estimate puts 390 million dengue virus infections per year, of which 96 million are clinically evident. Another dengue prevalence study estimates that 3.9 billion people are at risk of dengue virus infection.

Dengue is considered a year-round and nationwide risk in India, with the highest risk usually occurring from June to September. Authorities reported approximately 177,695 cases in 2021 and 32,796 cases in 2020.

A dengue vaccine is available in some countries. It is only recommended for people with a history of dengue infection and in a country with a high dengue burden. Dengue fever is transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms of dengue include a sudden onset of fever and at least one of the following: severe headache, severe pain behind the eyes, muscle and/or joint pain, rash, easy bruising, and/or bleeding from the nose or gums. Symptoms usually appear 5-7 days after being bitten, but can also develop up to 10 days after exposure. Dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). DHF can be fatal if not recognized and treated early.