CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Health officials have confirmed a few cases of dengue, a rare viral disease caused by mosquito bites, in Mecklenburg County.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said there are about 16 cases total in North Carolina, with four of those cases confirmed in Mecklenburg County. The report comes just days after health officials issued a public health warning nationwide about the disease.
How is dengue transmitted?
Dengue fever comes from certain infected mosquitoes and spreads to humans when they're bitten.
What are the symptoms of dengue?
The most common dengue symptoms are a high fever, rash, nausea and joint pain. Other symptoms include eye pain, typically behind the eyes, and vomiting. Symptoms usually begin two weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito, according to the CDC. Symptoms typically last anywhere from two to seven days. Most patients recover within a week.
How is dengue treated?
The CDC says there is no specific treatment for dengue, but infected individuals should get as much rest as possible and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Anyone with a fever or dengue symptoms should contact their doctor immediately.
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