What should you know about dengue and chikungunya caused by?

The viruses circulate between mosquitoes and people. A mosquito can acquire a virus while biting an infected person and later pass it to another person. The infections are not the same illness, although both may cause fever, muscle aches and joint pain.

Symptoms can begin after an interval following a bite and may vary from mild to severe. A person cannot identify which virus is responsible from fever or aches alone; travel, exposure and examination help guide testing.

Prevent bites by using repellent, wearing clothing that covers skin, and keeping doors, windows or sleeping areas screened where possible. Remove standing water around homes because mosquitoes can breed in small containers.

Arrange a GP consultation for fever after mosquito exposure or travel, especially when joint pain is prominent, symptoms are worsening or drinking is difficult. Mention dates and places of travel and any medicines taken.

Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, marked weakness or very little urine. These warning signs need prompt assessment regardless of whether dengue or chikungunya is suspected.

Which infection fits my exposure and symptoms? Do I need testing? How should fever and joint pain be managed? How can I avoid passing infection through mosquito bites? Which warning signs should prompt emergency care?