What should you know about mild dengue?

Dengue is spread by infected mosquitoes. The illness may begin with fever and aches, with nausea, a rash or easy bruising also possible. A mild presentation does not remove the need for observation: warning signs can appear as fever settles. A clinician may use your symptoms, examination and local exposure history to decide whether testing or monitoring is needed.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and keep a record of temperature, urine output and new symptoms. Use only fever relief recommended by a clinician or pharmacist; avoid aspirin and ibuprofen unless a healthcare professional specifically says they are appropriate, because bleeding risk may matter. Prevent mosquito bites while ill by using screens, clothing or repellent so mosquitoes do not spread the virus to others.

Get urgent medical help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual sleepiness, restlessness, breathing difficulty, faintness or cold clammy skin. Seek advice promptly if drinking becomes difficult or urine output falls.

Ask whether your symptoms need a GP Consultation, which medicines and fluids are suitable, when to repeat assessment, and which warning signs should take you to emergency care.