Which of the following is responsible for the spread of dengue?

Appeared in: GMCH Chandigarh - 2019

Explanation

Dengue virus is transmitted primarily by the female Aedes mosquito, specifically the Aedes aegypti species.
This mosquito is easily identified by its distinctive black and white striped markings, earning it the nickname 'tiger mosquito'.
Aedes mosquitoes are primarily daytime biters, with peak activity during the early morning and late afternoon.
They breed in artificial containers with clean, stagnant water commonly found in and around human homes, such as flower pots, discarded tires, and water storage tanks.

Option A: The Anopheles mosquito is the primary vector for malaria, caused by the Plasmodium parasite, not the dengue virus.
Option B: The Culex mosquito is the main vector for diseases such as Japanese encephalitis and lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis).
Option D: The housefly is a mechanical vector, not a biological vector. It spreads pathogens by carrying them on its body from contaminated sources (like feces) to food, but the pathogen does not multiply within the fly. It is associated with diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery, not dengue.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Vector-borne diseases and their specific transmitting agents, focusing on Dengue fever as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Identifying the correct vector is fundamental in community health nursing for planning and implementing targeted vector control programs (e.g., source reduction for Aedes).
Patient education is a key nursing role. Nurses must teach individuals and communities about protecting themselves from mosquito bites (e.g., using repellents, wearing long sleeves) and eliminating breeding grounds to prevent dengue.
In clinical assessment, knowing the vector's biting habits (day vs. night) can provide clues for differential diagnosis of febrile illnesses in endemic areas.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'dengue'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of communicable diseases and their vectors.
Systematically review the options provided.
Recall the specific vector for dengue fever. The Aedes mosquito is the well-known vector.
Differentiate this from the vectors for other common diseases: Anopheles for malaria and Culex for filariasis/Japanese encephalitis.
Eliminate the incorrect options based on this knowledge to arrive at the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Vector-borne diseases and their specific transmitting agents, focusing on Dengue fever.
Stem keywords: spread, dengue
Lead-in keywords: Which

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 87-89

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 2073-2075

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