What to know about dengue

Dengue Fever may begin suddenly with fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and joint pain. Some people also feel markedly tired. The illness can change over time, so a new symptom or a clear deterioration matters more than trying to judge the diagnosis from one symptom alone.

Easy bruising, bleeding from the gums, severe stomach pain, repeated vomiting, unusual sleepiness or restlessness can signal a need for urgent assessment. These features deserve attention even if the fever has started to settle.

Arrange a GP Consultation if dengue is possible, especially after mosquito exposure or recent travel to an area where it occurs. Tell the clinician when symptoms started, whether you can drink fluids, what medicines you have taken and whether bleeding or bruising has appeared.

Rest, take regular fluids if you can keep them down, and follow the clinician’s advice on symptom relief. Avoid starting aspirin or anti-inflammatory pain medicines unless a clinician who knows your situation advises them, because bleeding can be a concern in dengue.

Seek urgent medical care for trouble breathing, fainting, confusion, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, very little urine, or inability to drink. Children, pregnant people, older adults and people with significant long-term health conditions should seek clinical advice early when fever and body aches occur.

Ask whether your symptoms and travel or mosquito exposure fit dengue, which tests are appropriate, which pain-relief medicines are suitable, and which changes should prompt urgent reassessment.