What should you know about dengue kuume?

Dengue commonly presents with a sudden fever, headache, muscle aches and joint pain. Chills may occur, and some people develop nausea, a rash or easy bruising. A symptom such as fever can have many causes; these features do not confirm dengue on their own. A clinician may consider recent travel, mosquito exposure, examination findings and testing together.

The illness can change as the fever settles, so feeling temporarily better does not always mean monitoring is no longer needed. Reduced drinking, repeated vomiting or bleeding symptoms deserve prompt attention.

Rest and take frequent fluids; oral rehydration solution can help replace water and salts when sweating, vomiting or diarrhoea is present. Use only medicines recommended by a clinician or pharmacist, and check before taking products that may increase bleeding risk. Avoid mosquito bites while unwell by using screens, covered clothing and repellent, because mosquitoes can acquire the virus from an infected person.

Arrange a GP consultation if dengue is possible, especially after travel or mosquito exposure. Keep a record of fever, drinking, urination, vomiting, rash and any bleeding to share at the appointment.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual drowsiness, confusion, breathing difficulty, fainting, cold or clammy skin, or inability to drink. These signs can indicate worsening illness or significant fluid loss.

Get medical advice promptly if fever persists, returns after settling, or you are pregnant, very young, older, or living with a condition that increases risk. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.

Ask whether your symptoms and exposure history fit dengue, whether testing is appropriate now, which pain or fever medicines are suitable, how much to drink, and which changes should trigger immediate review.