Rashes and dengue: what to know

Dengue may cause a widespread, blotchy or flushed-looking rash as the illness changes. Skin findings can appear with fever or as fever settles, and they may be accompanied by chills, headache, body aches, nausea or marked tiredness. Easy bruising or bleeding is more concerning than an uncomplicated rash. Other viral illnesses, medication reactions and skin conditions can look similar, so a clinician considers the full pattern, travel or mosquito exposure and examination findings.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and monitor how you feel, including urine output and any change in bleeding. Use only medicines advised by a clinician; avoid aspirin or ibuprofen until dengue has been assessed because they may increase bleeding risk. Protect your skin from mosquitoes while unwell to reduce onward spread. Keep a record of temperature, symptoms, medicines and when the rash changed. Arrange a GP Consultation for assessment if dengue is possible, especially after travel or mosquito exposure.

Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual bruising, confusion, extreme weakness, breathing difficulty, fainting or inability to drink. Symptoms can worsen as fever improves, so feeling cooler does not by itself mean the illness is resolving. A child, pregnant person, older adult or someone with a long-term condition should receive prompt clinical advice.

Ask whether dengue testing or monitoring is needed, which pain reliever is appropriate, how much fluid is suitable, and which symptoms require an emergency visit. Mention travel dates, mosquito bites and all medicines taken.