How dengue virus is transmitted

After feeding on someone who has dengue virus in their blood, the mosquito can carry the virus and pass it to another person during a later bite. Ordinary casual contact, sharing food and being near someone with dengue do not usually transmit the infection. A mosquito can be present in homes, workplaces and outdoor areas.

People who develop dengue may have fever, headache, joint pain, muscle aches or chills. Easy bruising or bleeding is a warning sign that should not be explained away as a routine viral illness.

Use an insect repellent suited to your skin and follow its label, wear clothing that covers exposed skin, and use screens or air conditioning where possible. Empty standing water from containers and plant trays, cover stored water and keep gutters clear. If you are unwell with suspected dengue, protect yourself from further mosquito bites so mosquitoes do not pick up the virus.

Arrange medical advice for fever after mosquito exposure or travel to a dengue-affected area. Seek urgent care for bleeding, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty or marked drowsiness. Tell the clinician when symptoms began, where you travelled and whether mosquito bites were likely.

Ask whether your symptoms fit dengue or another infection, which test is useful at this stage, how to manage fluids and pain safely, and how long to continue bite precautions if dengue is suspected.