Can dengue spread?

A mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on a person carrying dengue virus. After the virus develops inside the mosquito, a later bite can pass it to another person. Dengue does not normally move between people through breathing, touching, sharing food, or ordinary household contact.

Someone with dengue-like illness may have fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills, rash, or easy bruising. Because a mosquito can bite an ill person, bite prevention matters during the illness and recovery period.

Use an effective repellent as directed, wear long sleeves and trousers when practical, and sleep behind screens or under a mosquito net. Empty or cover containers that hold water, including plant saucers and outdoor items. Keep windows and doors screened where possible, and arrange clinical advice if symptoms appear.

Get urgent help for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, unusual drowsiness, cold clammy skin, or trouble drinking. These warning signs can appear as the fever changes, so continue observing the person even after the temperature falls.

Ask how long to continue bite prevention, whether household members need advice, how to manage fever safely, and which local service to contact if warning signs develop.