What should you know about stop dengue?

Dengue is a viral illness spread by infected mosquitoes. Fever may occur with headache, muscle aches, joint pain, chills, or easy bruising. Symptoms can change as the fever settles, so feeling temporarily better does not always mean the illness has fully passed.

A clinician may assess your symptoms, hydration, medicines, and examination findings. Testing may be considered depending on timing and local clinical advice. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen unless a clinician specifically tells you to use them, because some dengue illnesses can involve bleeding risk.

Rest, take frequent small drinks, and follow the dosing advice for any fever medicine recommended by a healthcare professional. Keep a record of fever, vomiting, urine output, bleeding, and new pain so changes are easier to describe.

Use mosquito protection while unwell, including screens, long clothing, and an appropriate repellent. This reduces the chance of mosquitoes biting you and passing the virus to someone else. Arrange a GP Consultation if you have a persistent fever, significant weakness, or a possible exposure.

Seek urgent medical help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, marked drowsiness, breathing difficulty, cold or clammy skin, or inability to drink. These changes can signal dehydration, bleeding, or a more serious phase of illness.

Ask which fever medicine is suitable, how much fluid to take, whether testing is appropriate, which symptoms should trigger emergency care, and when you can safely return to work or exercise.