Dengue fever explained in English

Dengue may begin with a sudden fever and a generally unwell feeling. Some people also notice chills, headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea, muscle aches or aching joints. A rash or easy bruising can occur. Symptoms can overlap with other infections, so symptoms alone cannot confirm dengue. A clinician may consider recent travel or mosquito exposure and decide whether testing or observation is appropriate.

Rest and drink fluids regularly, especially if fever or vomiting is reducing your intake. Keep a record of symptoms and any medicines taken. Use only medicines recommended by a clinician or pharmacist; some pain medicines can increase bleeding risk when dengue is possible. Reduce mosquito bites with repellent, long clothing and screens, because mosquitoes can pick up the virus from an infected person and spread it onward.

Arrange a GP Consultation for suspected dengue, particularly after travel or residence in an area where it occurs. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, marked weakness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or inability to drink. Warning signs may appear as fever improves, so continue watching closely during that change.

Ask whether your symptoms and exposure history warrant a dengue test, which fluids and pain relief are suitable, how to monitor for bleeding, and when you should return for review.