Causes of dengue virus

An infected mosquito picks up the virus when it feeds on a person who has dengue. The virus then multiplies inside the mosquito and can pass to another person during a later bite. Dengue does not usually spread through ordinary contact such as sitting near someone, sharing a meal, or breathing the same air.

After infection, people may develop fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, or chills. Easy bruising or bleeding needs prompt medical attention, particularly if fever is settling but the person is becoming more unwell. Symptoms can overlap with other illnesses, so a symptom alone cannot identify dengue.

If dengue is possible, arrange a medical assessment and describe recent travel, mosquito exposure, and when symptoms began. Rest, drink fluids regularly, and follow advice about fever relief. Avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen unless a clinician says they are suitable, because some dengue illness can involve bleeding. Prevent further mosquito bites with long clothing, repellent, screens, or a bed net while you are unwell.

Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, marked weakness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or inability to drink. A fever with worsening symptoms also warrants prompt assessment. A GP consultation can help decide whether examination and testing are needed.

Ask whether your symptoms and exposure fit dengue, which medicines are safe for fever, how much fluid to take, and which changes should bring you back for review.