2006 dengue outbreak in Pakistan

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2006 Dengue Outbreak in Pakistan

The 2006 Dengue Outbreak in Pakistan (pronunciation: /ˈdɛŋɡiː/) was a significant health crisis that affected the country, particularly the province of Sindh and the city of Karachi.

Etymology

The term "Dengue" is derived from the Swahili phrase "Ka-dinga pepo", which describes the disease as being caused by an evil spirit. The Spanish mispronounced the term as "dengue", which has been used since the 1820s.

Overview

The outbreak began in the summer of 2006, with the first cases reported in Karachi. The disease quickly spread, affecting thousands of people and overwhelming the local healthcare system. The Pakistan Ministry of Health declared a state of emergency and launched a nationwide campaign to control the spread of the disease.

Symptoms

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. In severe cases, it can develop into Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Syndrome, which can be fatal.

Transmission

Dengue is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti species. The mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person with dengue virus in their blood.

Prevention and Control

Prevention and control of dengue primarily involve preventing mosquito bites and controlling mosquito populations. This includes using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

Impact

The 2006 Dengue Outbreak in Pakistan had a significant impact on public health, economy, and social life in the affected areas. It highlighted the need for improved disease surveillance, vector control, and public health infrastructure in the country.

Related Terms

External links

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