What should you know about dengue features?

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness. A person may develop fever with a strong headache, pain behind the eyes, marked muscle or joint discomfort, nausea, tiredness or a skin rash. Chills can occur as the body responds to fever. Easy bruising or bleeding from the nose or gums needs prompt attention because it can signal a more serious course. These features overlap with other infections, so symptoms alone cannot confirm dengue.

Rest, drink frequent fluids and record changes in fever, pain, rash, bruising and urine output. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen unless a clinician specifically advises them, because they may increase bleeding risk when dengue is possible. Use mosquito protection while unwell to reduce the chance of passing the virus to mosquitoes. Arrange a GP Consultation for advice about examination and any testing, especially after travel or mosquito exposure.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, unusual sleepiness or restlessness, breathing difficulty, faintness, blood in vomit or stool, heavy bleeding, or very little urine. Warning signs can appear as the fever settles, so feeling cooler does not always mean the illness has resolved. Children, pregnant people, older adults and anyone with a significant medical condition should seek advice early.

Ask whether your symptoms and recent travel warrant dengue testing, which fluids and medicines are suitable, how to monitor for bleeding, and when you should return for review.