Which mosquito causes dengue fever?

The mosquito becomes infected after biting a person who has dengue virus, then can pass the virus to another person during a later bite. Aedes mosquitoes commonly bite during daylight, although bites can happen at other times. They can breed in small amounts of water around homes, such as containers, plant trays or blocked drains. Dengue does not spread through ordinary touch, sharing food or sitting near someone.

After exposure, a person may develop fever with headache, muscle aches, joint pain or chills. Easy bruising or other bleeding signs deserve medical advice. These symptoms can have several causes, so a symptom alone does not confirm dengue.

Use an insect repellent according to its label, wear loose clothing that covers the arms and legs, and use screens or air conditioning where available. Empty, cover or clean containers that can hold water. If you feel unwell after possible exposure, arrange a GP Consultation and mention recent travel, residence or mosquito bites. A clinician can assess the pattern of symptoms and decide whether testing or monitoring is needed.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting blood, black stools, marked drowsiness, breathing difficulty, fainting or inability to keep fluids down. A fever that persists, worsening weakness or new easy bruising also warrants prompt assessment. Do not wait for a rash or a known mosquito bite before seeking help.

Ask whether your symptoms fit Dengue Fever, whether a blood test is appropriate, which fluids and medicines are suitable, and how to avoid passing the virus to local mosquitoes while you recover.