How is dengue transmitted?

The cycle begins when a mosquito bites a person whose blood contains dengue virus. The infected mosquito can then pass the virus during a later bite. Sharing meals, touching, kissing, coughing, and being in the same room are not usual routes. Transmission can also rarely occur through infected blood or from a pregnant person to a baby. Someone with dengue may have Fever, Headache, Chills, Muscle Aches, or Joint Pain, but these symptoms do not identify the route or confirm the infection.

Prevent bites with repellent, clothing that covers exposed skin, window screens, and mosquito nets when sleeping. Clear standing water from containers and outdoor items. If illness develops after possible exposure, book a GP Consultation and share your travel details, symptom timeline, and medicines. Avoid donating blood while unwell and follow local medical advice.

Arrange urgent assessment for severe belly pain, ongoing vomiting, bleeding, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty, marked weakness, or inability to drink. Prompt review is also appropriate for Easy Bruising or symptoms that worsen as fever begins to settle.

Ask whether testing is appropriate, how long you may be infectious to mosquitoes, how to protect people at home, and which symptoms mean you should attend emergency care.