How dengue fever spreads

Dengue virus moves through a mosquito–person cycle. A mosquito becomes infected after biting a person whose blood contains the virus; after the virus develops inside the mosquito, another bite can pass it to another person. Ordinary household contact, sharing food, coughing, and touching do not usually spread dengue. A person with dengue can still be a source for mosquitoes, even though they do not directly infect family members through casual contact. Fever, chills, headache, joint pain, and muscle aches can occur after infection.

Use insect repellent, wear clothing that covers arms and legs, and keep doors and windows screened where possible. Remove standing water from containers, trays, and other places where mosquitoes can breed. Anyone with suspected dengue should take extra care to avoid mosquito bites during the illness, including resting in a screened room or under a bed net. If symptoms develop, arrange a GP Consultation and mention recent travel, residence, or mosquito exposure.

Seek medical advice for a fever with severe headache, marked joint or muscle pain, persistent vomiting, or a new rash after possible mosquito exposure. Obtain urgent help for bleeding, easy bruising, severe abdominal pain, breathing difficulty, confusion, fainting, or inability to drink. Do not judge urgency only by how high the fever is; symptoms can change as it settles.

Ask how long to avoid mosquito exposure, whether household members need assessment, which symptoms require emergency care, and whether testing or follow-up is appropriate.