Why does dengue fever cause chills?

During an infection, immune signals can raise the body's temperature set point. Until the body reaches that new set point, a person can feel cold and may shiver even when their temperature is rising. Chills are a common presentation of dengue fever and may come with fever, headache, muscle or joint aches, tiredness, or a rash.

Chills alone do not identify the cause of an illness. Other infections, exposure to cold, and some medicines can produce a similar feeling. The pattern of symptoms, recent travel or mosquito exposure, examination, and testing guide a clinician's assessment.

Rest, drink fluids regularly if you can keep them down, and wear light layers that can be adjusted as the temperature changes. A cool, comfortable room may be easier to tolerate than heavy blankets. Use fever medicine only as advised by a healthcare professional; with suspected dengue, avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory pain medicines unless a clinician specifically tells you to take them, because bleeding can be a concern.

Keep track of fever, drinking, urination, vomiting, pain, and any bleeding. If dengue has been diagnosed or is suspected, follow the monitoring plan given by the treating team, including any advice about return visits.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual drowsiness or restlessness, difficulty breathing, fainting, cold clammy skin, or markedly reduced urination. These features can signal a serious change and should be assessed promptly. Seek medical advice for fever with chills after travel or mosquito exposure, particularly if you are pregnant or have a long-term health condition.

Ask whether dengue testing is needed, which pain or fever medicines are suitable, what fluid intake is appropriate, and which warning signs should prompt immediate return. Tell the clinician about travel, mosquito bites, medicines, pregnancy, and any bleeding symptoms.