Can dengue fever spread from one person to another?

The usual route is indirect: an infected mosquito bites a person with virus in their blood, then later bites another person. Hugging, kissing, handshakes, breastfeeding, sharing utensils, and breathing the same air are not the usual ways dengue passes between people. The practical concern is that a mosquito may bite someone who is ill and then transmit the virus onward. Fever, chills, headache, joint pain, and muscle aches can signal an illness that needs assessment but do not identify its transmission route.

A person with suspected dengue should avoid mosquito bites by using repellent, wearing covering clothing, and using screens or a bed net. Empty standing water around the home and keep water containers covered. Family members do not normally need to isolate from the patient because of casual contact, but they should seek advice if they develop fever or other symptoms after mosquito exposure. Arrange a GP Consultation for personalised testing and monitoring advice.

Arrange prompt medical review for fever with a new rash, severe headache, significant joint or muscle pain, or chills. Go to urgent care for easy bruising, bleeding, repeated vomiting, intense abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty, or trouble drinking. These warning signs matter whether or not another household member is ill.

Ask how to protect the patient from bites, whether testing is needed, how to monitor other household members, and what service to use if warning signs appear overnight.