What are the transmission routes of dengue fever?

Mar 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, the transmission routes of dengue fever may include mosquito bites (primarily by Aedes mosquitoes), mother-to-child transmission, blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and laboratory transmission. Aedes mosquitoes, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, are the primary vectors of the dengue virus. After biting individuals infected with the dengue virus, the virus multiplies extensively within the mosquito's body.

Generally, the transmission routes of dengue fever may include mosquito bites (by Aedes mosquitoes), mother-to-child transmission, blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and laboratory transmission. If experiencing any discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Mosquito Bite Transmission

The Aedes mosquito is the primary vector for the dengue virus, including species such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. These mosquitoes can become infected after biting individuals who are infected with the dengue virus. The virus then multiplies within the mosquito's body. When the infected mosquito bites a healthy person, it injects the virus into the person's bloodstream, leading to infection.

2. Mother-to-Child Transmission

If a pregnant woman becomes infected with the dengue virus during pregnancy, the virus may be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta. This occurs because, after infection, the virus enters the mother's circulatory system, and since the placental circulation is closely connected to that of the fetus, the virus may cross the placental barrier and infect the fetus.

3. Blood Transfusion Transmission

Healthy individuals may contract dengue fever by receiving blood or blood products contaminated with the dengue virus. This can occur when the blood donor is in the incubation period of a dengue infection and does not display obvious symptoms, yet the virus is already present in their blood. Once transfused into the recipient, the virus may cause infection.

4. Organ Transplant Transmission

During organ transplantation, if the donor organ carries the dengue virus and is not detected beforehand, the recipient is highly likely to contract dengue fever. This is because the transplanted organ integrates into the recipient's circulatory system, allowing the virus to enter the body and cause infection.

5. Laboratory Transmission

During laboratory research on the dengue virus, improper handling by researchers—for example, sustaining a puncture wound from virus-contaminated equipment or failing to take adequate protective measures when handling viral samples—may allow the virus to enter the body through the respiratory tract or skin, potentially causing infection. This transmission route poses a relatively high risk in laboratory settings.

Understanding these transmission routes can help us implement targeted preventive measures in daily life and reduce the risk of infection.

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