In dengue fever, the vector is?

Appeared in: ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (Shift -2)

Explanation

Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by the bite of infected female mosquitoes of the Aedes genus.
The primary vector is Aedes aegypti, and a secondary vector is Aedes albopictus.
These mosquitoes are characteristically day-biters and breed in artificial collections of clean, stagnant water near human dwellings.

Option B: Culex mosquitoes are vectors for diseases like Japanese Encephalitis and Filariasis, not Dengue.
Option C: Male mosquitoes of all species, including Anopheles, do not take blood meals and therefore do not transmit diseases to humans. They feed on plant juices.
Option D: Female Anopheles mosquitoes are the specific vectors for Malaria, not Dengue.

Visual 1: Infographic - A comparative chart showing the key differences between Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex mosquitoes, including their resting posture, breeding sites, and the diseases they transmit. This helps in quick visual recall of the vectors.
Visual 2: Image - Photograph of an Aedes aegypti mosquito, highlighting its characteristic black and white striped markings ('tiger mosquito').

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Vector identification for Dengue Fever as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the correct vector is crucial for implementing effective public health strategies, such as targeted vector control measures (e.g., eliminating breeding sites) and community education to prevent dengue.
Patient education should focus on preventing bites from day-biting mosquitoes by using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and using mosquito nets during daytime naps, especially for children and the elderly.
What if? If a patient presents with fever and lives in an area where both Dengue and Malaria are endemic, the differential diagnosis must include both. The vector's biting time (day vs. night) can be a clue, but laboratory tests are essential for a definitive diagnosis.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core question: it asks for the 'vector' of 'dengue fever'.
This is a factual recall question from community health nursing/preventive medicine.
Recall the main mosquito-borne diseases and their specific vectors.
Associate Aedes with Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika.
Associate Anopheles with Malaria.
Associate Culex with Japanese Encephalitis and Filariasis.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full ESIC Nursing Officer 2016 (Shift -2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.