While the world continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, another persistent health concern in Singapore is dengue. Since dengue is endemic here, it’s crucial for you to understand the disease, recognize its symptoms, and take proactive measures to prevent infection.
What Is Dengue?
Dengue is a mosquito-borne virus transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, primarily the Aedes aegypti species. However, other mosquito species, such as Aedes albopictus, can also spread the virus.
There are four dengue serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. Historically, DENV-2 has been the predominant serotype in Singapore, though other serotypes periodically become dominant. Since your immunity to all four serotypes remains low, the risk of infection and outbreaks is always present.
Recognizing Dengue Symptoms
Dengue symptoms usually appear 4 to 6 days after infection and can last up to 10 days. Watch out for:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headaches
- Skin rash
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle and joint pain (also called “breakbone fever”)
- Mild bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding gums)
Dengue vs. COVID-19 and the Common Cold
Dengue symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses like COVID-19 or the flu. Here’s how you can tell them apart:
- Fever: Dengue fever is much higher (40-41°C) than COVID-19 (37.5-39°C) or the flu (37.7-38.8°C).
- Headaches: Severe headaches and pain behind the eyes are common with dengue but not COVID-19 or the flu.
- Dry Cough: A key symptom of COVID-19 and the flu, but not dengue.
- Skin Rash: A common dengue symptom appearing 2-5 days after fever onset, but rare in COVID-19 and the flu.
- Mild Bleeding: Unique to dengue—if you notice nosebleeds or bleeding gums, it’s best to see a doctor immediately.
If you experience these symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical advice as soon as possible.
What to Do If You Have Dengue
If you suspect you have dengue, visit a doctor immediately. There’s no specific cure for dengue, but supportive treatment helps manage symptoms. If your platelet count drops significantly or you develop severe symptoms, hospitalization may be necessary.
Protect Yourself with Dengue Insurance
Dengue-related medical expenses can add up quickly, but the good news is that insurance policies in Singapore can help. Many insurers offer coverage that includes hospitalization, medical costs, and even daily hospital cash benefits. It’s worth exploring your options to find the best plan for your needs.
How to Prevent Dengue
Prevention is key when it comes to dengue. Here’s what you can do to stay safe:
- Eliminate stagnant water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so check and remove water from flower pots, containers, and drains regularly.
- Use mosquito screens and nets: Keep doors and windows closed or use screens to keep mosquitoes out.
- Apply insect repellent: Use repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear protective clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially when heading outdoors.
- Use mosquito sprays and coils: Spray insecticide in dark corners of your home, such as under beds, behind curtains, and behind furniture.
- Check NEA’s Dengue Cluster Map: Stay informed about dengue hotspots in your area.
Protect Yourself:
Protecting yourself against dengue fever in Singapore is crucial, and several insurance providers offer plans specifically designed to support you in case of infection. Here are some options to consider:
- PRUSafe Dengue by Prudential
- Affordable Premiums: At just S$5 for a three-month term.
- Get Well Benefit: Receive a lump sum of S$500 upon diagnosis of dengue fever.
- Hospital Cash Benefit: S$200 per day for up to 5 days if hospitalized due to dengue.
- Death Benefit: S$20,000 if death occurs due to dengue within 14 days of diagnosis.
- Singlife’s Free Dengue Aid Insurance
- Exclusive for SAFRA Members: Complimentary 12-month coverage.
- Hospitalization Income Benefit: Up to S$1,000 if hospitalized for 3 consecutive days in Singapore due to dengue fever.
- Death Benefit: Lump sum of S$20,000 for death due to dengue within 3 months from confirmed diagnosis.
- GREAT Dengue Cover by Great Eastern
- Hospitalization Benefit: S$1,000 if diagnosed and hospitalized in Singapore for 5 consecutive days or longer solely due to dengue fever.
- Death Benefit: S$10,000 if death occurs due to, and within 14 days of, the diagnosis of dengue fever in Singapore.
- PA Assurance with Infectious Disease Cover by Income Insurance
- Accidental Death Coverage: S$100,000.
- Medical Expenses: S$2,000 coverage.
- Daily Hospital Income: S$100 per day for up to 365 days per policy year.
- ICU Benefit: S$300 daily hospital income in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), for up to 30 days per accident.
- TM Protect MosBite by Tokio Marine
- Complimentary 1-Year Coverage: Protects up to S$1,500 against dengue fever, Zika fever, Chikungunya fever, Yellow fever, and Malaria.
When selecting a plan, consider factors such as coverage benefits, premium costs, and eligibility requirements to ensure it aligns with your needs. It’s advisable to review the terms and conditions of each policy and consult with the insurance provider for detailed information.
Stay Vigilant and Protect Your Loved Ones
Dengue remains a serious threat in Singapore, but by taking preventive measures and ensuring you have proper insurance coverage, you can protect yourself and your family. Stay vigilant, take action, and keep your home mosquito-free!
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