How long does dengue last?

Dengue symptoms commonly last several days, while tiredness and reduced stamina can continue during recovery. The illness often begins with fever, headache, muscle aches or joint pain. Symptoms may ease as the fever settles, but that change does not always mean the illness has safely passed.

The early phase is usually marked by a high temperature and flu-like symptoms such as chills, headache, muscle aches and joint pain. This febrile phase commonly lasts around two to seven days. Some people then enter a short period when warning signs can appear, particularly around the time the fever improves. After this, appetite, energy and concentration may return gradually. Bruising or small areas of bleeding can occur and should be discussed with a clinician rather than dismissed as part of an ordinary fever.

The length and intensity of dengue vary. A person may feel better before full strength returns, so plan for extra rest and a gradual return to work, exercise and other demanding activities. If symptoms are not following a steady pattern, an assessment can help distinguish dengue from other causes of fever.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and monitor your temperature and symptoms. Small, frequent drinks may be easier if nausea or poor appetite is present. Use only medicines recommended by a healthcare professional; medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen can increase bleeding risk in suspected dengue. Paracetamol may be suitable for fever for some people, but follow the label and seek advice if you have liver disease, drink heavily or take other medicines.

Avoid strenuous activity while you have fever or feel weak. Protect yourself from mosquito bites during illness so mosquitoes do not pick up the virus and pass it to other people. Arrange a GP consultation if you have a persistent fever, a recent mosquito exposure in an affected area, or symptoms that are worsening or difficult to manage.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual drowsiness or restlessness, trouble breathing, fainting, cold or clammy skin, or much less urine than usual. Get prompt advice if a fever improves but you then become noticeably weaker or develop new symptoms. These warning signs can occur during the transition after the fever and need assessment even if the earlier fever seemed to be settling.

Children, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a long-term health condition may need earlier medical advice. If you cannot keep fluids down, feel light-headed when standing or are becoming dehydrated, contact a healthcare professional promptly.

Ask whether your symptoms fit dengue or another infection, whether testing is appropriate at this stage, which fever medicine is suitable for you, and how much fluid and activity are sensible while you recover. Tell the clinician when the fever began, whether it has changed, any bleeding or bruising, your recent travel or mosquito exposure, and the medicines or supplements you take.