What should you know about for dengue which test?

A clinician considers fever pattern, travel or mosquito exposure, examination findings and other possible infections. A blood sample may be used to look for dengue material early in illness or antibodies that develop later; the useful test can therefore change with timing. A full blood count may help monitor platelets and other blood-cell changes, but results must be interpreted with symptoms and repeat assessment when needed. Fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, joint pain and easy bruising can occur in dengue, but they can also have other causes.

Arrange a GP consultation promptly if dengue is possible, especially after travel to an area where it occurs. Tell the clinician when the fever began, where you travelled, mosquito bites, medicines taken and any bleeding symptoms. Drink suitable fluids and rest while awaiting advice. Avoid starting aspirin or ibuprofen unless a clinician says it is appropriate, because some illnesses with bleeding risk need different pain-relief choices. Follow instructions about repeat blood tests and monitoring.

Seek urgent medical help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, extreme sleepiness or cold clammy skin. Warning signs can appear as fever settles, so feeling cooler does not always mean the illness is over. Do not wait for a test result if these symptoms develop.

Ask which test fits the day of illness, whether a repeat sample or blood count is needed, and what symptoms should prompt emergency care. Mention pregnancy, childhood, older age, bleeding problems and all medicines. Related pages include [Dengue Fever](/conditions/dengue-fever/), [Fever](/symptoms/fever/) and [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).