What should you know about the mosquito that spreads dengue?

A mosquito becomes infected after biting a person who has dengue, then can pass the virus to another person through a later bite. The mosquito does not cause dengue by its appearance alone; infection depends on whether it carries the virus. Dengue does not usually spread directly from casual contact between people.

Possible illness includes fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills, and easy bruising. These symptoms can have other causes, so a symptom alone does not establish dengue.

Use an approved insect repellent, wear loose clothing that covers skin, and use screens or air conditioning where available. Empty standing water from plant trays, containers, and outdoor items because Aedes mosquitoes can breed in small collections of water. If you are unwell after possible exposure, arrange a GP Consultation and avoid further mosquito bites while seeking advice.

Get medical help for fever with severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, marked drowsiness, breathing difficulty, faintness, or inability to drink. Urgent assessment is especially important if symptoms worsen as the fever changes, or if the person is pregnant, very young, older, or has a long-term illness.

Could my symptoms fit dengue or another infection? What tests and fluids are appropriate? Which pain medicines should I avoid, and how can I prevent mosquito bites at home?