Dengue mosquito and normal mosquito: key differences

Dengue can be spread by infected Aedes mosquitoes. Their bites may look like other mosquito bites, and many bites leave only a small itchy mark or no obvious mark. Colour, size, swelling, and the presence of stripes are not a dependable way to diagnose dengue or identify an infected insect. Dengue fever is a condition diagnosed from the pattern of illness and, when appropriate, clinical testing—not from the insect alone. Fever, headache, joint pain, and muscle aches can occur with dengue, but they can also have other causes.

Use window screens, air conditioning or fans where available, and an insect repellent according to its label. Wear clothing that covers arms and legs when practical, and remove standing water from containers around the home. If you notice a bite, wash the skin and avoid scratching. Monitor how you feel over the following days rather than trying to judge the mosquito by appearance.

Arrange medical advice if fever, chills, headache, marked muscle or joint aches, or unusual bruising follows possible exposure. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, faintness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or inability to drink. A GP Consultation can help decide whether examination, hydration advice, or testing is appropriate.

Ask whether your symptoms fit dengue, what warning signs to watch for, which pain medicines are suitable, and how to protect household members from further mosquito bites.