Dengue's Impact on Individuals, Families and Communities

Far From Home: Claudia's Resilient Fight Against Dengue

Claudia’s journey with dengue began during what was meant to be a dream sabbatical. Traveling solo from Lombok (Indonesia) to Koh Samui (Thailand), she was suddenly struck by a high fever that refused to break. For three days, she battled relentless chills and weakness, far from the comfort of home or family. When a blood test finally confirmed dengue.

The following eight days unfolded with unyielding fever, dangerously low blood pressure, and frequent fainting spells. Daily blood checks became routine, and her body weakened, shedding 10% of its weight. Eventually, a sharp drop in platelet count led to her hospitalization. Despite the isolation and fear, Claudia managed each challenge on her own, drawing on inner reserves of strength and resilience.

When Dengue Strikes Home: Battling Dengue's Impact on the Vulnerable

Carolina lives in Germany, far from her family in Brazil, yet dengue’s impact hits close to home.Last year, her beloved 93-year-old grandmother in Brazil fell seriously ill with dengue. The infection was so severe that she had to be hospitalized for a week, and complications like a kidney infection made the fight even harder. Thankfully, her grandmother recovered, but the experience changed everything for the family.

They decided it was safer for her to move into a retirement home, where she could receive constant care and protection.

Carolina’s story is a heartfelt reminder of how dengue can deeply impact families, especially their most vulnerable members and how the emotional and logistical burden of caring for a loved one with a disease that can escalate unpredictably is significant.

Pregnancy and Dengue: Gaby's Hospitalization and Hope

In February 2023, Gaby contracted dengue during her 35th week of pregnancy in Buenos Aires. The infection required a six-day hospital stay due to the risk of premature birth. During this time, her husband and mother-in-law also became ill with dengue.

Gaby experienced severe symptoms and was admitted to the Hospital. Separated from her family, she was closely monitored by doctors, who were concerned for both her health and the baby's.

After a week, Gaby was discharged, and her son, Manuel, was born on February 29th. The birth was challenging, but the joy of welcoming him overshadowed the difficulties.

Thankfully, both Gaby and Manuel have fully recovered from the dengue infection. However, the experience left a lasting impact, highlighting the fear and anxiety that dengue can inflict during vulnerable times, such as pregnancy.

Urban Vulnerability: Sara's Dengue Experience in São Paulo

Alexandra’s best friend, Sara, fell ill with dengue at the age of 32, while living in São Paulo - a city where the virus is a persistent threat. Over the course of a week, she endured fever, exhaustion, and joint pain, which forced her to halt her daily activities and left her bedridden, weak, and anxious.

Sara was fortunate to have access to reliable diagnostic tests and prompt hospital care, including an IV infusion that aided her recovery and allowed her to return home soon after. However, the experience left her more cautious, determined to avoid a second infection, and seriously considering vaccination as a preventive measure.

Beyond individuals, dengue’s effects ripple through entire communities highlighting the broader vulnerability faced by urban populations in Brazil.