Dengue fever a second time: what to know

Dengue is caused by a virus carried by infected mosquitoes. A later infection can involve a different dengue type from an earlier illness. Previous dengue does not make a new fever automatically dengue, and symptoms overlap with other infections. Fever, headache, joint pain, muscle aches, chills, or a rash can occur. Easy bruising or bleeding needs particular attention. The period after the fever improves can still be clinically significant, so feeling better is not the only guide to safety.

Arrange a GP Consultation promptly if dengue is possible, especially if you have had it before. Tell the clinician when the earlier illness occurred, where you may have been exposed, and every medicine or supplement you use. Rest, drink fluids regularly, and follow the clinician’s advice about monitoring. Use only medicines recommended for you; some pain medicines can increase bleeding risk. Avoid mosquito bites while unwell by using repellent, covering skin, and staying behind screens, because mosquitoes can acquire the virus from an infected person and pass it on.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual bruising, marked weakness, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, or inability to drink. Do not wait for the fever to return. In a person with suspected repeat dengue, these changes can signal a need for examination, blood testing, fluids, or hospital monitoring.

Ask which tests are suitable, how often your symptoms or blood results should be reviewed, which pain or fever medicines are appropriate, and what local service to contact outside clinic hours.