Understanding Dengue Virus Transmission and Prevention Strategies
Table of Contents
By Alice Smith | JAKARTA – 2025/06/04 17:51:10
A leading expert in infectious and tropical diseases, Dr. Mulya Rahma Karyanti, has highlighted that dengue virus infections are primarily transmitted through the bites of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Dr. Karyanti, a consultant at FKUI RSCM, explained that only female mosquitoes are capable of transmitting the virus because they require blood to produce eggs.
“Transmission of dengue virus infection is through the Aedes Aegypti mosquito bite factor, and only females can transmit dengue virus.Because he needs to suck blood to be able to lay eggs,” Dr. Mulya stated during a recent webinar.
According to Dr. Karyanti, male mosquitoes feed on plant nectar and do not bite humans. Female mosquitoes, though, can transmit the virus within a radius of approximately 100-200 meters after biting an infected individual.
Drawing parallels with the pandemic, Dr. Karyanti noted that in households with multiple children, some might contract dengue while others do not, potentially due to varying levels of social interaction and preventative measures.
She emphasized that dengue transmission does not occur through droplets, aerosols, or direct contact but solely through the bites of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Dr. Karyanti urged the public to adopt the “3M” approach, which involves regularly cleaning containers that can accumulate stagnant water, thereby eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.
“At least once a week, it helps to do 3M. Drain, hoard, close. It means the bathroom is brushed,” she reiterated.
She also advised checking less visible areas around the house, such as water dispensers, spaces beneath houses, flower pots, and pet drinking containers, as these can also serve as mosquito breeding sites.
In addition to environmental measures, Dr.Karyanti mentioned that a dengue vaccine is available for individuals aged 6 to 45 years.
“Given with 2 doses at an interval of 3 months,” she explained.
Dengue Prevention and Control
“Transmission of dengue virus infection is through the Aedes Aegypti mosquito bite factor, and only females can transmit dengue virus.”
The vaccine has demonstrated an effectiveness of up to 86 percent in preventing severe dengue cases. however, Dr. Karyanti stressed that vaccination should complement,not replace,the 3M practices in preventing dengue.
Furthermore, she highlighted the use of wolbachia bacteria in mosquito control, a technology that prevents mosquitoes from transmitting the dengue virus.
Understanding Dengue: Transmission, Symptoms, and Prevention
Frequently Asked Questions About Dengue
How is dengue fever transmitted?
Dengue fever is transmitted through the bite of an Aedes aegypti mosquito infected with the dengue virus. The mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person already infected with the virus.
What are the symptoms of dengue fever?
symptoms of dengue fever can include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rash. In severe cases,it can led to dengue hemorrhagic fever,which can be life-threatening.
How can I prevent dengue fever?
Prevention measures include avoiding mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in areas. Additionally, reducing mosquito breeding grounds by eliminating standing water around your home is crucial.
