What should you know about dengue virus transmission?

Transmission follows a cycle: a mosquito bites a person carrying dengue virus, the mosquito becomes infected, and a later bite can transmit the virus to another person. The cycle is supported by mosquitoes that breed in small collections of stagnant water around homes and other buildings.

Dengue is not normally transmitted through a handshake, shared food or ordinary conversation. Someone with dengue should still avoid mosquito bites because mosquitoes can pick up the virus while that person is infected.

Apply repellent according to its instructions, wear clothing that covers arms and legs, and use window screens or air conditioning. Use a bed net in open or unscreened rooms. Empty, scrub, cover or discard items that can hold rainwater, and keep stored water covered.

If fever, headache, joint pain or muscle aches develop after possible exposure, arrange a GP Consultation. Mention travel and symptom timing, and use bite precautions while waiting for advice.

Obtain urgent medical care for bleeding, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, difficulty breathing, faintness, confusion or unusual drowsiness. Chills or fever alone can have many causes, but a worsening illness after possible exposure deserves clinical assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit dengue, whether testing is appropriate, how long to continue mosquito protection, and which medicines are safe while the diagnosis is being clarified.