How can dengue be transmitted?

A mosquito becomes infected after feeding on someone whose blood contains dengue virus. The virus then develops inside the mosquito. A later bite can introduce the virus into another person. Dengue does not normally spread through casual contact such as sitting beside someone, sharing food, or touching intact skin.

A person may have fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills, rash, or no noticeable symptoms. Symptoms cannot identify the transmission route, and a diagnosis needs clinical assessment with testing when appropriate.

Use an approved insect repellent as directed, wear loose clothing that covers arms and legs, and use screens or air conditioning where available. Mosquitoes that spread dengue can bite during the day, so protection should not be limited to nighttime. Remove standing water from containers around the home, including plant saucers and buckets.

If you become unwell after possible exposure, arrange a GP Consultation and mention travel, residence, or mosquito bites. Protect yourself from further bites while awaiting advice.

Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or extreme weakness. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe if you are pregnant, have a serious long-term condition, or cannot keep fluids down. A clinician can advise on monitoring and safe symptom relief.

Ask how likely dengue is based on your exposure, whether testing is useful now, which medicines to avoid, and how to protect household members from mosquito bites. Share the date symptoms began and any recent travel.