Although there are indications that COVID-19 is slowing and vaccination rates are increasing, fresh concerns have risen in the shape of a significant spike in dengue infections throughout the country. Even while the dengue outbreak has been largely contained in recent years, physicians are now reporting more dengue cases than ever before, owing to the existence of a newer dengue variety DENV-2, or strain D2.

Whilst still we have seen the devastation caused by the Delta variant of the SARS-COV-2 virus through the alarming increase in dengue cases, experts have stated that a novel variant of the dengue virus has been discovered in over 11 states across the country, increasing caseloads and being quite lethal in nature.

The latest variation has only just been discovered, and it may contribute to existing tensions, particularly during a period when it can be difficult to distinguish it from COVID-19 symptoms.

What is our current knowledge about the newly found variant?

In the last one and a half months, 11 Indian states, including Kerala, Telangana, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha, have seen a startling increase in dengue infections. While the monsoon season typically sees an increase in dengue cases, this year has seen a significant increase in mosquito-borne viral disease, as well as an increase in COVID-19 instances.

According to official sources, among the four serotypes of dengue virus, DENV-2, or strain D2, is the one now in circulation, which is not only causing an increase in severity but also resulting in more fatalities. Balram Bhargava, Director-General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has also indicated that the strain is extremely dangerous and capable of causing death, and is one of the causes of the unexplained epidemic in western Uttar Pradesh.

What makes this so alarming?

One of the primary reasons the DENV strain is causing so much concern is the severity of instances reported. Not only have there been more dengue cases detected than normal across states, but certain states, such as Uttar Pradesh and Kerala, have also witnessed an increase in the number of individuals, particularly children, hospitalised for treatment, as well as a number of fatalities. Officials assert that this is due in part to the D2 variant of the mosquito-borne virus.

What is the frequency with which the dengue virus mutates or evolves?

While the dengue virus is the primary cause of the feared disease, it is known to manifest itself in four distinct forms, namely D1, D2, D3, and D4.

The variants of the DENV infection, similar to COVID-19, indicate that it increases the risks for someone being sick or has characteristics that make it a danger. Additionally, scientists assert that the existence of more concerning dengue strains may imply that individuals who have been previously sick may get reinfected since they would have protection against just one of the strains (which infected them before).

Is the disease's propagation as dangerous as COVID-19 variants?

Though a variety of coronaviruses have been suggested to quickly spread and produce presymptomatic disease, it is important to keep in mind that dengue is transmitted via mosquito bites, and not by direct respiratory droplets.

What distinguishes dengue fever from COVID-19?

Due to the fact that this is also a period when COVID-19 is a major worry, dengue manifestations should not be taken lightly. Despite the fact that both diseases produce symptoms that are very similar, it may be challenging to identify symptoms apart. Additionally, there may be a great deal of overlap in symptoms, as well as some significant distinctions. As a result, it is critical to pay close attention.

Dengue infection may present with symptoms such as very high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pains, and nausea, stomach discomfort, and diarrhoea. As with COVID, individuals may have a wide range of symptoms, which may vary from person to person. Whether it is a mild, moderate, or severe illness, some of the typical symptoms include:

• Rising fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Cold
• Sore throat
• Trouble breathing
• Headache
• Myalgia
• Extreme tiredness
• Weakness

All of these symptoms may occur in various ways with dengue and malaria. However, the following are some methods for distinguishing the two without having a test or tracking contact and probable exposure:

1. Lack of smell and taste, as well as other symptoms of upper respiratory tract inflammation, may occur exclusively in COVID-19, not in dengue.
2. Dengue fever is not usually associated with shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or breathing difficulties.
3. Dengue fever often begins with a headache or weakness, but this is not necessarily the case if you have been exposed to COVID-19.

What is the management and treatment?

While dengue remains a treatable illness that is readily preventable (by taking the necessary measures), therapy for dengue remains symptomatic. Although hospitalisation may be necessary in certain instances, the majority of individuals recover well within a few days if their symptoms are correctly identified and treated.

Disclaimer- The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of M3 India.

The author is a practising super specialist from New Delhi.