Saudi Arabia to carry out extensive survey of dengue fever

Dubai: The Saudi Public Health Authority (Weqaya) is preparing to launch an extensive 12-month survey project to assess the epidemiological status of dengue fever across the Kingdom.

This initiative aims to implement a comprehensive, long-term study covering all regions to better understand and address the spread of the disease in the country.

Dengue fever, also known as "break-bone fever," is a viral infection transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. According to the Ministry of Health, dengue fever is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions and tends to spread rapidly in densely populated urban areas, suburban communities, and rural regions.

The infection is often asymptomatic, but when symptoms do occur, they typically appear 3 to 14 days after exposure. Common symptoms include high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pain, skin itching, and a distinctive rash.

Dengue transmission occurs when a mosquito feeds on the blood of an infected person and then bites a healthy individual, spreading the virus. An infected person can continue to transmit the virus through mosquito bites for 4 to 7 days from the onset of symptoms, further amplifying the spread of the disease.

Weqaya’s survey is expected to provide valuable insights into the prevalence, transmission patterns, and risk factors of dengue fever, contributing to the development of targeted prevention and control strategies.