Ministry Advises Dengue Fever Prevention Amidst Seasonal Mosquito Surge

Ministry issues Dengue prevention alert for rising mosquitoes

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) issued an advisory on December 23, 2023, for the community, emphasizing protection against the virus causing dengue fever, carried by certain mosquito species, coinciding with the onset of winter and the rainy season.

The MoPH observed that recent intense rainfall in Qatar has amplified mosquito breeding within the country, compounded by various factors such as climate change, global warming, and trade activities. It's noteworthy that the dengue fever virus has established itself as endemic in over 100 countries globally.

The MoPH emphasized the significance of community awareness in minimizing mosquito bites and understanding the appropriate steps to take if individuals encounter signs and symptoms of dengue fever.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) highlighted the detection of certain new mosquito types in Qatar that could potentially transmit the dengue fever virus. They cautioned community members to take preventive measures.

Dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, spreads when an individual is bitten by an infected mosquito. The Ministry clarified that dengue fever is not generally contagious and does not pass from person to person through casual contact. MoPH emphasized that this fever is prevalent in regions with tropical and subtropical climates worldwide.

MoPH pointed out that many individuals infected with the dengue fever virus may not exhibit symptoms. However, some may develop flu-like symptoms within four to ten days after a mosquito bite, including high fever, headache, eye pain, body aches, nausea, and a rash. While a small percentage may experience severe dengue, necessitating medical attention and potentially hospitalization.

The Ministry of Public Health recommends individuals with these symptoms to seek essential medical care at their local health center.

MoPH emphasized that community members can minimize their susceptibility to dengue fever and other mosquito-borne infections by implementing precautions to reduce mosquito bites.

The likelihood of contracting the dengue fever virus remains low in Qatar. The Ministry maintains vigilance over the dengue fever situation in Qatar and collaborates closely with the Ministry of Municipality and other pertinent authorities to manage mosquito spread, affirmed MoPH.