What is dengue haemorrhagic fever?

Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. Early illness may involve fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills, nausea or marked tiredness. Severe disease can appear as the fever begins to settle, with bleeding, fluid loss from blood vessels and problems affecting circulation or organs. A person with dengue does not automatically have the haemorrhagic form; the warning pattern and clinical tests determine severity.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if dengue is possible, especially after travel or mosquito exposure in an area where dengue occurs. Rest, take fluids in small frequent amounts if able, and use only fever medicine advised by a clinician. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen unless a healthcare professional specifically says they are suitable, because they may increase bleeding risk. Use mosquito protection while unwell to reduce spread through bites.

Go to emergency care for bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting blood, black stools, easy bruising, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, unusual sleepiness, confusion, cold clammy skin, breathing difficulty or very little urine. Seek care promptly if fever returns or the person becomes weaker as fever improves. Children, pregnant people and those with other illnesses may need earlier review.

Ask whether testing is needed, how much fluid to drink, which medicines are safe, how to monitor urine and bleeding, and which symptoms mean you should go straight to hospital.