Back to Results
Dengue Fever
Urgent
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted mainly through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It is common in tropical and subtropical regions and is more frequently reported during periods favorable to mosquito breeding. Many infections cause no symptoms or produce a short illness with fever, headache, nausea, rash, and muscle or joint pain. A smaller proportion of infections can progress to severe dengue, which may cause bleeding, shock, and other serious complications.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Dengue requires medical monitoring because some infections can progress to severe dengue. Seek prompt medical care for persistent high fever or worsening symptoms. Immediate medical attention is needed for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting blood, blood in the stool, marked restlessness or weakness, breathing difficulty, fainting, or other signs of shock or severe dengue.
Symptoms
4
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted mainly through the bites of infected mosquitoes. It is common in tropical and subtropical regions and is more frequently reported during periods favorable to mosquito breeding. Many infections cause no symptoms or produce a short illness with fever, headache, nausea, rash, and muscle or joint pain. A smaller proportion of infections can progress to severe dengue, which may cause bleeding, shock, and other serious complications.
Symptoms 4
Bleeding Gums
Fever
Increased Appetite
Muscle Weakness
Causes 1
Dengue fever is caused by dengue viruses, which are transmitted primarily through infected Aedes mosquitoes. There are four related dengue virus types, and infection with one type does not necessarily provide protection against the others. The virus enters the bloodstream after the bite of an infected mosquito and can cause a range of illness from mild dengue fever to severe dengue. Rare transmission can also occur through blood exposure and from a pregnant person to a baby.
Infection
Risk Factors
Living in or traveling to areas where dengue transmission occurs increases the likelihood of infection because infected mosquitoes may be present. Exposure to mosquito bites is the main risk factor. A previous dengue infection can increase the risk of severe dengue during a later infection. Infants, pregnancy, and certain other circumstances may also increase concern for severe disease. Mosquito exposure is particularly important in warm and wet environments where transmission is common.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Dengue is diagnosed using the medical history, symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Blood tests can detect evidence of dengue infection and may be selected according to the stage of illness. Testing may include molecular tests such as polymerase chain reaction, antibody testing, and other laboratory investigations. A complete blood count and liver-related tests may also help healthcare professionals assess the illness and identify possible complications.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Preventing mosquito bites is an important way to reduce the risk of dengue
Measures include using appropriate insect repellent, wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs, using window screens or other barriers, and sleeping under mosquito nets when appropriate
Reducing standing water around homes can limit mosquito breeding sites
People traveling to areas where dengue occurs should learn about local transmission and take practical precautions throughout their stay
Prevention Guidance
Preventing mosquito bites is an important way to reduce the risk of dengue. Measures include using appropriate insect repellent, wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs, using window screens or other barriers, and sleeping under mosquito nets when appropriate. Reducing standing water around homes can limit mosquito breeding sites. People traveling to areas where dengue occurs should learn about local transmission and take practical precautions throughout their stay.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Coconut Water
Helps maintain hydration.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and fluids.
Vegetable Soup
Easy to digest and nutritious.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen dehydration.
Oily Foods
May aggravate digestive discomfort.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease.
It spreads through infected Aedes mosquito bites.
High fever, headache and body pain are common.
Blood tests confirm the infection.
Mosquito control and protection help prevent dengue.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.