Breakbone fever: what to know

Dengue is spread by infected mosquitoes. Symptoms can begin with a sudden fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, strong muscle or joint aches, nausea, and a rash. Similar fever patterns can occur with other infections, including common cold, COVID-19, acute bronchitis, brucellosis, chickenpox, cellulitis, or croup, so symptoms alone cannot confirm dengue. A recent stay in or travel to an area where dengue occurs is useful information for a clinician.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and monitor how you feel. Seek medical advice promptly if dengue is possible, especially after mosquito exposure or travel. Ask which fever and pain medicine is suitable; avoid taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory pain relievers until a clinician advises they are safe, because dengue can involve bleeding. Reduce mosquito bites while unwell with repellent, covered clothing, and screens, since mosquitoes can spread infection onward.

Get urgent help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual sleepiness, restlessness, breathing difficulty, pale clammy skin, or inability to drink. Warning symptoms can appear as the fever settles, so improvement in temperature does not always mean the illness has passed.

Tell the clinician when the fever began, where you have travelled, possible mosquito exposure, medicines taken, and any bleeding or abdominal symptoms. Ask whether you need examination, blood tests, fluid guidance, and a clear plan for monitoring at home.