What to do after a mosquito bite to reduce dengue risk

A bite alone does not show whether the mosquito carried dengue. Antibiotics do not prevent this viral infection, and applying antiseptic to the bite does not stop dengue from developing.

Dengue is transmitted when an infected Aedes mosquito bites a person. The small itchy bump is the skin's reaction to the bite, not proof of dengue. A mosquito cannot be identified as infected by its appearance or by how the bite feels.

Dengue can present with fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle or joint aches, nausea, or a rash. Symptoms may begin several days after a bite, so note when and where the exposure occurred and pay attention to how you feel afterward.

Wash the bite with soap and water. A cool compress can ease itching and swelling; avoid scratching because broken skin can become infected. If you need an anti-itch treatment, a pharmacist can help select one that suits your age, health conditions, and other medicines.

Use mosquito repellent as directed, wear clothing that covers the arms and legs, and choose screened or air-conditioned rooms where possible. Empty standing water from plant saucers, buckets, and other containers around the home. These steps cannot undo the original bite, but they reduce the chance of further bites.

If fever or other dengue-like symptoms appear, rest, drink fluids, and arrange a medical assessment. Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen until dengue has been ruled out because they can increase bleeding risk; paracetamol may be suitable when used according to its label and your clinician's advice. Continue preventing mosquito bites while unwell so mosquitoes cannot pick up the virus and pass it to someone else.

Contact a clinician promptly if you develop fever or feel significantly unwell after possible exposure in an area where dengue occurs. Mention the date and place of the bites, recent travel, symptoms, medicines, pregnancy, and any long-term health conditions.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual bruising, marked drowsiness or restlessness, difficulty breathing, faintness, or cold and clammy skin. Warning signs can appear as fever starts to settle, so improvement in temperature alone does not always mean recovery.

Ask whether your symptoms and exposure location suggest dengue testing, which fluids and pain relief are appropriate for you, and which warning signs should trigger urgent care. Also confirm when follow-up is needed and whether any regular medicines could affect bleeding or hydration.