What should you know about characteristics of dengue fever?

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection. Symptoms may begin after an interval following a bite and can include high fever, pain behind the eyes, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, nausea, and a rash. Some people develop easy bruising or bleeding as the illness changes. These features overlap with other infections, so symptoms alone cannot establish dengue. A clinician considers travel or local exposure, examination findings, and testing. See the Dengue Fever condition page for more context.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and monitor your temperature and symptoms. Use only medicines advised by a clinician or pharmacist; some pain medicines can increase bleeding risk and may not be suitable when dengue is possible. Avoid mosquito bites while unwell by using screens, clothing, and repellent, because mosquitoes can acquire the virus from an infected person and spread it onward. Arrange a GP Consultation for assessment and advice about testing.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual sleepiness, confusion, breathing difficulty, cold or clammy skin, or inability to drink. Warning signs can appear as fever starts to settle, so continue watching symptoms even if temperature improves. Easy bruising or worsening weakness also warrants prompt assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms and exposure history fit dengue, which tests are needed, what fluids and medicines are suitable, and which warning signs should send you to emergency care.