Signs that you may have dengue

Dengue is a viral illness spread by infected mosquitoes. A high temperature may occur with marked tiredness, pain behind the eyes, headache, muscle aches, or joint pain. Some people develop nausea, a rash, or easy bruising. These features can overlap with other infections, so symptoms alone cannot establish the diagnosis.

A fever that settles does not always mean the illness has finished. The period after fever improves can still require attention, especially if the person becomes weak, develops abdominal pain, vomits repeatedly, or has bleeding.

Rest, take frequent fluids, and record temperature, symptoms, and any medicines used. Arrange a GP consultation for assessment and advice about testing, particularly after mosquito exposure or travel in an area where dengue occurs.

Use only medicines recommended by a clinician or pharmacist. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen unless a healthcare professional specifically advises them, because they may increase bleeding risk in some situations. Help prevent further mosquito bites while unwell by using suitable repellent and covering exposed skin.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, marked drowsiness, confusion, breathing difficulty, cold or clammy skin, or very little urine. Emergency assessment is also needed if a person cannot keep fluids down or is rapidly becoming weaker.

Ask whether your symptoms fit dengue or another infection, whether blood testing is appropriate now or needs repeating, which pain reliever is suitable, and which warning signs should prompt emergency care.